boca raton synagogue weeklynewsletter.brsonline.org/weekly_4_3_15.pdf · 2015. 4. 3. · boca raton...
TRANSCRIPT
RABBI EFREM GOLDBERGMarah D’[email protected]
RABBI PHILIP MOSKOWITZassociate [email protected]
DAVID L. WOLGIN, PHDPresiDent
RABBI DAVID SHABTAI, MDrabbi, sePharDic Minyan
RABBI MORDECHAI SMOLARCIKrabbi, brs [email protected]
RABBI JOSH BROIDEoutreach [email protected]
RABBI SIMMY SHABTAIrosh beis MeDrash
RABBI KENNETH BRANDERrabbi eMeritus
MATTHEW HOCHERMANexecutive Director
RABBI GERSHON EISENBERGER youth [email protected]
RABBI ELI ZIANSteen Director
ESTHER LUPIN, LCSWbrs/JFs social Worker
KERRY PURCELLeDitor-in-chieF oF the Weekly
HAHN JUDAIC CAMPUS • 7900 MONTOYA CIRCLE N. BOCA RATON, FLORIDA 33433-4912(561) 394-0394 • FAX (561) 394-0180 • WWW.BRSONLINE.ORG • [email protected]
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WEEKLYB o c a R a t o n S y n a g o g u e
PESACHApril 3 - April 9 • 14 Nisan - 20 Nisan 5775
CHAG SAMEACH!
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The holiday of Pesach in general and the Seder in particular are not just about recounting a seminal event in Jewish history. Each year, Pesach is a time designated to focus on that which enslaves us and holds us in bondage today and to seek in our own lives the freedom and liberty that our ancestors achieved. For example: Selfishness enslaves, and selflessness liberates. Unregulated use of technology enslaves; the capacity to disconnect liberates. Addiction enslaves, and sovereignty liberates Stinginess enslaves,
and generosity liberates. Chaos and disorder enslave; rules and boundaries liberate.
This year, a new form of captivity and freedom occurred to me as a result of a very unfortunate development in Boca Raton. Prejudice and hate enslave, but love and broadmindedness liberate.
My good friend and colleague Rabbi Ruvi New, together with his shul, is seeking to build a new Chabad center in East Boca at 770 Palmetto Park Rd. Their application is fully compliant with city codes, recommended for approval by city staff, and has been unanimously approved by the Planning and Zoning Commission. The new location is zoned as a commercial property and doesn’t interfere with any residences in the area. Rabbi New is an outstanding leader with impeccable integrity. He and his shul members are kind, considerate, respectful, welcoming, and very committed to both the greater Jewish community and to the greater Boca community at large.
Despite the shul’s receiving unanimous approval following an open hearing, there continues to be a voice of opposition (hopefully small) that is rooted in nothing other than prejudice, bias, and bigotry.
According to a website called www.bocawatch.org, “a group of concerned citizens established Boca Watch to provide Boca’s citizens with information to increase the voice of citizen in City Government.” A post this week begins by stating that it wants to “discuss the elephant in the room.” The author, who chooses to remain anonymous other than identifying himself or herself as a Reform Jew, goes on to state, “I have lived through and witnessed what happens when an Orthodox Jewish synagogue comes to an otherwise diverse town filled with all religions. This is not a slow progression. It is swift and pervasive. The beach town that you know now will not look or feel at all the same.”
FROM THE RABBI’S DESK
“Prejudice Enslaves;
Confronting it Liberates”
He or she continues by explaining exactly how: “It will be located within walking distance to several upscale neighborhoods that will undoubtedly become predominantly more Orthodox in nature… The Orthodoxy practice modesty, meaning, there is a strict conservative dress code for both the women and men. Remember, this is a beach community with half clothed people walking up and down the street.”
The author describes the impact to housing and says, “Certain ritualistic practices, such as taking ‘mikvah’ will need to be available, housed in close proximity to the Shul, perhaps even in a private home that will be converted for that specific use. Essentially, mikvah is a cleansing bath-house for women.” He or she continues, “Large families with many young children, carriages and the like will be walking through the neighborhoods to get to temple. The neighborhoods which do not have sidewalks will soon have large groups of walkers on the already narrow streets, getting to and from temple. Walking to temple will require an ‘eruv’ around the community and one will need to be installed.”
Whether or not the post accurately depicts demographic trends in the growth of Orthodox Jewish communities is entirely irrelevant. What matters is that Chabad of East Boca has both a legal and moral right to pursue its dream of a new home, and posts like this are nothing short of bigoted, prejudiced, and intolerable.
Can you imagine if an African American Church submitted an application to build, and a blog post described what would happen to the neighborhood if all these African Americans moved in and how because of their culture and practices, “The beach town that you know now will not look or feel at all the same.” There would rightly be outrage and indignation. This post is no less deserving of the same reaction and response.
We are blessed to live in a country that provides religious freedom and invites diverse religious practice, as long as it is consistent with American law. Building an Orthodox synagogue, purchasing homes in its vicinity, dressing modestly, walking with children to services, constructing a mikvah and building an eruv are all lawful and legitimate. Efforts
BOCA RATON SYNAGOGUE DERECH ERETZ STATEMENTIn the spirit of our mission “Valuing Diversity and Celebrating Unity,” we believe that a community is built on the collective engagement of individuals representing differing perspectives, whether religious, political, or social. As Boca Raton Synagogue is an environment where all of its members and visitors need to feel valued and welcomed, members are required to comport themselves in a manner which reflects mutual respect and a sense of inclusiveness. In our Synagogue, we value debate about pressing issues. This is consistent with the American democratic tradition. Our sages saw the value of arguments conducted L”Shem Shamayim,“ for the sake of heaven, believing that great minds who engage in respectful debate will arrive at better solutions. They valued and welcomed alternate views, as do we. “Derech Eretz,” good and proper conduct, and mutually respectful dialogue are core values of the Synagogue community. These create a “safe place” for inspiration and spiritual growth, the central purpose of the Synagogue. It is a violation of Jewish law and ethics to use harsh language (vitriol) to demonize or to marginalize people with whom one may disagree. Uncivil expression reflects negatively on our Synagogue as well as on the individuals who engage in such behavior. Boca Raton Synagogue expects its members to act and to speak with kindness and sensitivity to others. It is only in this fashion that a strong, vibrant, and harmonious community can be created and maintained. Adherence to this policy is a requirement for membership in good standing at the Boca Raton Synagogue.
In line with our recently published Derech Eretz Statement, we mention some examples of how we can be more sensitive toward others and create an even better community. • Please help reshelve chumashim and siddurim at the conclusion of all minyanim. • When the shul is crowded, please take private articles off the seat next to you and invite someone to sit down. There is a coatroom in the
lobby for hats and outerwear.If you have a Mensch Message you would like us to promote, please email us at [email protected]
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to stifle or thwart the growth of an Orthodox Jewish community should be unconscionable and intolerable to all who believe in America’s foundational beliefs and principles.
Boca is remarkable for its cross-denominational sense of Jewish community and for the genuine friendships shared by its rabbis. This sentiment, so disturbingly expressed by a fellow Jew, is truly an aberration and disruption of the unity we work so hard to achieve. To be clear, the author absolutely represents only themselves and not all Reform Jews just like when an Orthodox person says or does something reprehensible they don’t speak for all Orthodox Jews. I am confident that my rabbinic colleagues of all denominations will show their support to Rabbi New and reject the sentiments in this post that run counter to our shared values and contribute to division and conflict among our people. Commenting on V’hi she’amda in the Haggadah, the Sfas Emes says, “She’lo echad bilvad amad aleynu l’chaloseinu“—when the Jewish people are not echad (one), when we are divided, that alone stands to destroy us.
This unfortunate episode provides not only an opportunity to fight bigotry, but a reminder of how it is incumbent on observant Jews to carry ourselves with dignity, love, openness, respect, and honesty in a way that would make people feel fortunate to have Orthodox Jews live among them and not the opposite.
In the Pesach spirit of seeking freedom, I urge you to take a moment and contact Mayor Susan Haynie at [email protected] and members of the City Council to communicate our tremendous disappointment
with the rhetoric being used against Chabad and to call on them to both reject that rhetoric and support the unanimous decision of the Planning and Zoning Commission.
This Pesach, may we all be liberated and freed from that which holds us in bondage!
Chag Sameach
FRIDAY, APRIL 10TH7TH DAY OF PESACH
Hashkama Minyan 7:30 amSephardic Minyan 6:20 & 9:00 amMain Minyan 9:00 amShtiebel Minyan 9:30 amTeen Minyan 9:45 amRabbi’s Class 5:10 pm
Maintaining the Pesach High: Medicinal Marijuana on Shabbat and Yom Tov
Rabbi David Shabtai, MDCandle Lighting without Shehechiyanu 7:23 pm For those accepting early Yom Tov, no earlier than 6:23 pm For those accepting regular Yom Tov, no later than 7:23 pm
Sephardic Mincha followed by Ma’ariv 6:00 pmMincha followed by Ma’ariv 6:10 pm & 7:25 pm
SHABBAT APRIL 11TH8TH DAY OF PESACH - YIZKOR
Hashkama Minyan 7:30 amSephardic Minyan 6:20 & 9:00 amMain Minyan 9:00 amShtiebel Minyan 9:30 amTeen Minyan 9:45 amYizkor (approximately) 10:15 amRabbi’s Class 6:10 pm
Using Love Maps to Navigate the Stormy Sea of Marriage:Jewish Secrets to a Healthy Marriage
Rabbi Efrem GoldbergSephardic Mincha 7:05 pmMincha 7:10 pmSeudas Moshiach (Social Hall) Ma’ariv/Havdalah 8:18 pmYou may eat Chametz sold through the Shul after 9:00 pm
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FRIDAY, APRIL 3RDEREV PESACH
Candle Lighting 7:20 pmMincha/Kabbalat Shabbat & Yom Tov 7:20 pmMaariv 8:05 pmSeder Should Not Begin Before 8:14 pm
SHABBAT, APRIL 4TH1ST DAY OF PESACH
Shacharit 9:30 amMincha 7:10 pmMaariv/Counting Omer 8:05 pmYom Tov Candle Lighting (Not Before) 8:14 pm
SUNDAY, APRIL 5TH2ND DAY OF PESACH
Shacharit 9:30 pmMincha 7:25 pmMaariv/ Havdallah 8:14 pm
THURSDAY, APRIL 9THCHOL HAMOED PESACH
Candle Lighting 7:23 pmMincha / Kabbalat Yom Tov 7:20 pm
BRS WEST PESACH SCHEDULE
(At the Hillel Day School, 21001 95th Ave. • (305) 725-2292 • www.brswestonline.org)
FRIDAY, APRIL 3RDEREV PESACH
TA’ANIT BECHOROTFAST OF THE FIRSTBORN
Sephardic Kabbalat Shabbat/Kabbalat Yom Tov 7:00 pm Candle Lighting with Shehechiyanu 7:20 pmKabbalat Shabbat/Kabbalat Yom Tov 7:20 pm
Haggadah Insights – Rabbi Efrem GoldbergMa’ariv 8:05 pmSeder Should not begin before 8:13 pm
SHABBAT, APRIL 4TH1ST DAY OF PESACH
Hashkama Minyan 7:30 amSephardic Minyan 6:25 & 9:00 amMain Minyan 9:00 am Sermon: Rabbi Efrem GoldbergShtiebel Minyan 9:30 amTeen Minyan 9:45 amDaf Yomi 6:00 pmRabbi’s Class 6:10 pm
When Slaves Become the Masters:Jewish Views on SlaveryRabbi Philip Moskowitz
Sephardic Mincha 7:05 pmMincha 7:10 pm
“Are We There Yet?” The Final Destination of Yetzi’at Mitzrayim
Rabbi Judah Goldberg, MDMa’ariv/Counting Omer 8:05 pmCandle Lighting with Shehechiyanu not before 8:14 pmOne cannot begin preparing for Yom Tov or the Seder prior to Candle lighting
SUNDAY, APRIL 5TH2ND DAY OF PESACH
Hashkama Minyan 7:30 amSephardic Minyan 6:25 & 9:00 amMain Minyan 9:00 am Sermon: Rabbi Philip Moskowitz Shtiebel Minyan 9:30 amTeen Minyan 9:45 amDaf Yomi 5:25 pmRabbi’s Class 6:25 pm
Shifra and Puah: Just Who Were These Women? Mrs. Shayna Goldberg
Sephardic Mincha 7:20 pm Mincha 7:25 pm
Different Times for Talmud Torah Rabbi Simmy Shabtai
Maariv/ Havdallah 8:15 pm
MONDAY, APRIL 6TH THROUGH WEDNESDAY, APRIL 8THCHOL HAMOED PESACH
Shacharit 6:05, 7:00, 8:00 & 9:00 amSephardic Shacharit 6:40 & 8:00 amDaf Yomi 7:00 amSephardic Mincha/Ma’ariv 7:20 pmMincha/Ma’ariv 7:25 pmLate Ma’ariv (Senders Library) 9:30 pm
THURSDAY, APRIL 9THCHOL HAMOED PESACH
Sephardic Shacharit 6:40 & 7:55 am Shacharit 6:05, 7:00, 8:00 & 9:00 amDaf Yomi 7:00 amCandle Lighting without Shehechiyanu 7:23 pm For those accepting early Yom Tov, no earlier than 6:23 pm For those accepting regular Yom Tov 7:23 pmSephardic Mincha / Kabbalat Yom Tov 6:05 & 7:20 pmMincha / Kabbalat Yom Tov 6:10 & 7:25 pm
PESACH SCHEDULE 2015/5775
SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENTSMAZAL TOV
Michael & Liz Muschel on the engagement of their son, Yoni, to Jenny Stieglitz, daughter of Richard & Judy Stieglitz of Riverdale, NY. AND to his proud brother, Binny, sister in law, Shani and to the Muschel cousins.Dr. Jeffrey and Judith Siegel on their daughter, Dr. Natanyah Siegel, passing her Internal Medicine and Pulmonary Medicine Boards at Mt. Sinai Hospital in New York City.Gerald Sigal on the publication of his book “The Jewish Response to Missionary Christianity; Why Jews Don’t Believe in Jesus”.
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MARCH OF REMEMBRANCEThe March of Remembrance is a community-wide gathering to remember the Holocaust, honor survivors and those lost, and to stand together and say “Never again!”. Please join us on Sunday, April 12 at 3:00 pm to march from the Boca Raton Christian School, 470 NW 4th Ave to Temple Beth El of Boca Raton, 333 SW 4th Ave. A special Yom HaShoah program will take place at Temple Bethel immediately following the march, featuring remarks from a Holocaust survivor, a Holocaust liberator, and a March of the Living alumnus.
YOM HA’SHOAH - SAVE THE DATE
HOLOCAUST COMMEMORATION PROGRAMThe Yom Ha’shoah program will be held on Thursday, April 16 at 7:00 pm. This year’s program will feature a video presentation that is the culmination of a year-long project where students from the Weinbaum Yeshiva High School were paired with Holocaust survivors to learn their stories and pledge to be a link in the chain of memory. Join us to witness the results of the student’s remarkable projects.
This program will also featuring the winning entries to the Holocaust Writing and Art Competition
LIVE CONNECTION WITH MARCH OF THE LIVINGThere will be a pre-program live call in connection with Rabbi Josh Broide and the BRS students participating in the March of the Living on Thursday, April 16 at 6:00 pm. Mincha will be at 6:45 pm followed by the main program. Free baby sitting for children in K-4 grade. Sponsored by the K.A.D.I.S.H. Auxiliary
AVOS U'BANIMThe exciting Avos Ubanim father-son learning program on Shabbat afternoons will not take place this week, but will on the 8th day of Pesach Shabbat, April 11 at 5:10 pm in the Social Hall. Come join your friends for great learning, and prizes!
SAFETY AND SECURITY REMINDERSAs we approach the holidays, it is a good time to share a number of safety and security reminders:• Check that your pool fence is sturdy and closed.• Review stranger danger with your children.• Obey the speed limit and never text while driving.• Take care when choosing a location to light Shabbat and Yom
Tov candles. • Have proper and working smoke detectors & carbon monoxide
detectors in appropriate locations (If anyone cannot afford them, please contact Rabbi Goldberg)
• Be extremely cautious when kashering with boiling water. Wear safe shoes, glasses and gloves.
• Use extreme caution if using a candle for Bedikas Chametz and when burning the Chametz on Erev Pesach.
• Place hotplates, plattas, etc. on timers so that they are not left on indefinitely.
WHATSAPP CHESED GROUPSOur community often has Chesed opportunities such as driving someone to a doctor or making a meal that requires responsiveness in real time. Additionally, we sometimes have Shiva homes that struggle to get a Minyan. We have created two WhatsApp groups for individuals to be alerted to Chesed opportunities in real time and to volunteer to help. If you would like to be part of the BRS Chesed Group or the BRS Shiva Minyan Group on WhatsApp, please contact the Shul office indicating which group and your WhatsApp cell phone number.
MIMOUNAH - MOTZA’EI PESACHThe Sephardic Minyan is excited to invite the entire community to a Mimounah celebration, on Motza’ei Pesach, April 11 at 10:00 pm at BRS. Join us as we reflect on our Pesach experience and work to bring the blessings of Pesach to the entire year. We’ll have traditional Mimounah foods, live music, and an amazing time. Whether you’ve celebrated Mimounah for the last 20 years or are a Mimounah novice, please join us to make this a true community-wide event. Looking forward to seeing you there and please bring a friend, or two, or ten!
ZUMBA AT BRSJoin Shana Maikhor on Chol Hamoed Pesach, Tuesday, April 7 and Wednesday, April 8 at 9:30 am in room 205/206 for a fun and exciting ZUMBA workout. The cost to attend the class is $5 per person per day and all proceeds will be donated to Tomchei Shabbat.
ERUV TAVSHILINPlease remember to make an Eruv Tavshilin next Thursday, April 9th prior to the last days of Pesach so that you will be able to prepare on Yom Tov for Shabbat. If you forget to make an Eruv Tavshilin, you can rely on the Eruv made by Rabbi Goldberg on behalf of the community.
CHIZUK (MISCARRIAGE) SUPPORT GROUP
Please join us for our monthly support group for women who are struggling with infertility as well as a miscarriage or stillbirth. We meet on the first Tues of every month at 8pm in the Board Room. Our next meeting will take place on Chol Hamoed- Tues April 7th. To find out more or to be involved, please contact our BRS Social Worker Esther Lupin at [email protected].
CLEAN UP YOUR BILL WHILE CLEANING FOR CHAMETZ…
There are just three months remaining to our 2014/2015 fiscal year. The monthly statements for April will be emailed out shortly. If you haven’t already made financial arrangements with the bookkeeper by either setting up a payment plan, or by filling out a Dues Adjustment Form, we ask that you do so now. You are also able to go online to brsonline.org and login in the top right hand corner and view your account and make a payment. Please note that seats for the High Holidays cannot be reserved until all past due balances are paid in full or payment arrangements have been made. No one will be turned away due to lack of funds. If you would like to discuss anything pertaining to membership, please contact Matthew Hocherman at [email protected].
BRS HAS A GUINNESS WORLD RECORD!It is with great pride and excitement that we announce that Boca Raton Synagogue is now the Guinness World Record holder for the world’s largest Tallit. Our Kol Hanearim Tallit is made of over 50 Taleitim! It is the size of a half basketball court. It can hold 700 children comfortably beneath it.
Kol Hanearim is a time to celebrate our children and grandchildren’s Torah learning. We hope everyone in the community will use this as an opportunity to have their children and grandchildren and even great grandchildren’s names added to this Tallit. The children may even be able to look up and find their name when they all come together under the Tallit on Simchat Torah.
The cost to have a name embroidered on the Tallit is $4 per letter. All names will be embroidered in English and will be spelled the same way they are submitted If you would like to add your names to the Talit or are interested in sponsorship opportunities, please contact Jamie in the Shul office at 561-394-0394. The deadline to submit your form to the Shul office with payment is Wednesday, July 1, 2015
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BRS AUXILIARIES, ETC.BIKUR CHOLIM
A big thank you to Dr. Amy Wolnerman, Richard Berg, and Steve Freireich for kashering the Jewish Hospitality Suite and Shabbos Room at the Boca Raton Regional Hospital.Special appreciation to Bikur Cholim’s Advisor, Rabbi Goldberg, for his grateful interest and guidance and vast knowledge of his repository halachic information related to Bikur Cholim which has guided us since the organization’s inception.
PLEASE SUPPORT THE COMMUNITY ERUVThe Eruv is a vital necessity to our community. It is that time of year and, once again, our funds are dangerously low. This makes maintaining the Eruv almost impossible. In order to continue the upkeep of our Eruv, please send a donation as soon as you can. Checks should be made payable to Boca Community Eruv Inc. and sent to Boca Raton Community Eruv, Inc. 7653 London Lane, Boca Raton, Fl 33433. The Eruv needs your caring support…JUST DO IT!!
LIFE CYCLE
YAHRZEITS Eli Buzaglo in memory of his father Yosef Buzaglo, 14 NisanRabbi Ephraim Goldberg in memory of his father Israel Goldberg, 14 NisanFarley Weiss in memory of his father Harry Weiss, 14 NisanDr. Ephraim Foonberg in memory of his grandmother Hana Foonberg, 15 NisanBruce Schneider in memory of his mother Ruth Schneider, 15 NisanHassia Yehuda in memory of her father Yechiel Subar, 15 NisanRabbi Gabriel Ohayon in memory of his father Rabbi Joseph Ohayon, 16 NisanGeorge Saks in memory of his aunt Ruth Saks, 16 NisanIda Wax in memory of her mother-in-law Sara Wax, 16 NisanDr. Larry Charme in memory of his father Donn Charme, 17 NisanJudith Eiger in memory of her husband Aaron Eiger, 17 NisanRaphael Eiger in memory of his father Aaron Eiger, 17 NisanSandy Lilker in memory of her father Allan Grossman, 17 NisanMark Kotok in memory of his mother Rhoda Kotok, 17 NisanFlorence Wolf in memory of her mother Sarah Lebow, 17 NisanElliot Levontin in memory of his mother Sharron Levontin, 17 NisanLeah Louis in memory of her mother Bobbie Vale, 18 NisanMitchell Weiss in memory of his mother Esther Ottenberg, 18 NisanDavid Neuman in memory of his mother Sarah Neuman, 19 NisanDr. Cynthia March in memory of her mother-in-law Ethel Sides, 19 NisanRobin Kabat in memory of her father Jack Meltzer, 20 NisanRobert Pearlman in memory of his mother Phyllis Pearlman, 20 NisanMoshe Leib Stuart in memory of his mother Freda Stuart, 20 NisanEvelyn Sauer in memory of her husband Richard Zipin, 20 Nisan
CONDOLENCES TOJeffrey, Rabbi Fred Klein, Hal Klein and Dr. Aaron Klein on the passing of their beloved mother and grandmother, Florence L. Klein.
Moshe Applebaum Moshe Zvi ben Rachel LeahYosef Chaim ben FaigaMerv Jacobs Meir ben SarahStuart Silverman Yeshaya Moshe ben Nacha SarahNachum Gedalia ben Sara BailaMordechai ben MalkaYonatan Chaim ben YehuditChazan Mark Helpern Moshe Ephraim ben Mindle LeahMichael Lupin Michoel Yonah Ben Leah
REFUAH SHLAYMAHFor members of BRS Community.
For all other Refuah Shlaymah needs, please call Linda at (561) 394-0394Helen Ijac Alta Haita bat DevorahJoan Noven Rochel Tova bat MalkaAriella Berman Ariella Sarah bat Elisheva MalkaBeverly Kassirer Briendle bat PesselChana Guta bat RochelRuth Malinowitz Rivka bat FreydaNoa Maya Carmel Noa Maya bat Devora RachelPerel bat Chaya SaraJacquie Padow Ya’akova Chava Rus bat Beyla Or Ester bat Dina RivkaWendy Wasserstrom Zehava bat ChayaLily Lerman Libi Chana bat Golda Chava
Friends of the IDF “Their job is to look after Israel.
Ours is to look after them.”
Shabbat Ha’Chayal • Shabbat, April 18Boca Raton Synagogue’s commitment to supporting our IDF soldiers is ironclad. The Shabbat Ha’Chayal at BRS is our way of showing support and appreciation for these precious and heroic soldiers and their efforts to secure our beloved homeland.
To learn more about the FIDF contact Sherri Siskin, Executive Director, at 561.602.5915 or [email protected]
Boca Raton Synagogue Partnership Weekend
LIFE CYCLE
APPRECIATIONCantor Mark & Sari Halperin extend heartfelt thanks to Rabbi Goldberg, Rabbi Moskowitz, Rabbi David Shabtai, Linda, David Fried, his sister Sharon, and to the entire community for the out pouring of love and support that he received during his recent illness.
BIRTHDAYSJacob Freedman Ashira MeyerowitzYitzy Griner Jeff HermanDr. Simone Griff Ariana Kassorla
ANNIVERSARYJonathan & Tamara Gritzman
FREE SAT/ACT PREP COURSEJFS is offering a free SAT/ACT prep course to students whose families reside in Boca Raton, Delray Beach, and Highland Beach and who financially qualify. Courses begin in the spring and run through the summer. For more information and to check eligibility, please contact [email protected].
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PILLAR SOCIETY 2014-2015EMERALD
Daniel & Caroline KatzPaul S. & Lynn H. Pariser
PLATINUMLeo & Heni Ehrlich
Martin & Ileana FlicsBernie & Melanie Kaminetsky
Lothar & Carlyn MayerDr. William & Debbie Rand
Michael & Jill RoseLarry & Deborah Silver
Harry & Marilyn Wanderer
GOLDDaniel & Dr. Liora Adler
Dr. Albert & Evelyn BegasHoward & Bonnie BlockDr. Steve & Yael Charlap
Donny & Dr. Freyda CohenDrs. Eli and Orlie CohenDr. Hillel & Chayi CohenDr. Meyer & Laura Cohen
Nachman & Jamie FeigDr. Mark & Tilda Fisher
Dr. Ben & Cara FreedmanMichael & Barbara Frenkel
Hensha GansbourgRabbi Efrem & Yocheved Goldberg
Murray & Basheva GoldbergGlen & Rosa Golish
Drs. Charles & Simone GriffStanley & Ana Haar
Dr. Larry & Debra HalperinDr. Chanoch & Rachel Harow
Ben & Hanna Henschel Dr. Moshe & Shari Hirth
Yanki & Lauren HofstatterDr. Mervin & Elaine JacobsDr. David & Sharona Kay
Gary & Judi KrasnaYaakov Kronfeld
Drs. Joseph & Seema LoskoveStephen & Linda MelcerBob & Penny Pearlman
Dr. Michael & Dana Petrover Dr. Daniel & Rachel Rudensky
Mike SendersDr. Leor & Gabriela Skoczylas
Dr. Zorik & Ellen SpektorTeddy & Linda Struhl
Dr. Jonathan & Suri WinogradDrs. Allen & Amy WolnermanMichael & Risa Zimmerman
Anonymous Anonymous
SAPPHIREDr. Mark & Helen Cohan
Rabbi Simcha & Anna FreedmanElaine Trachtenberg
Dr. Neal & Bonnie Weinreb AnonymousSILVER
Dr. Avraham & Elana BelizonEvan & Orly Shapiro
Dr. Josh & Stephanie SternDr. Ashi & Chava Weisstuch
Anonymous
THE 2014-2015 PILLAR SOCIETY CAMPAIGN
NEW PILLAR SOCIETY CATEGORYWe have added a new $4,000 Pillar Society level this year called Sapphire. This is for BRS Members that at least one spouse is 70 years old or over. The Sapphire Level members will receive all
of the same benefits of the Silver Level as well as a Half Page Ad in the Annual Journal. Pillar Society brochures with additional
information are available in the lobby. To join the Pillar Society for 2014/2015 please contact Matthew Hocherman at
[email protected] or (561) 394-0394.
List in formation
WEEK AT A GLANCEDAILY • DAF YOMI (Sunday - Wednesday)
with Rabbi Ben Sugerman at 7:00 am in Rooms 211/212.• MISHNA BERURA YOMI (Sunday - Wednesday)
15 minutes before Mincha• NIGHT BEIT MIDRASH (Sunday - Wednesday) community learning in the Senders Library at 8:00 pm• NIGHTTIME DAF YOMI (Sunday - Wednesday)
with BRS Rabbinate at 8:40 pm in Rooms 104/105MONDAY• HEBREW POETRY with Hassia Yehuda will resume in the fall
• MEN’S AFTERNOON KOLLEL will not take place this week
TUESDAY• PARSHA CLASS with Rabbi Efrem Goldberg will not take place this week• SEFER DANIEL CLASS with Rabbi Philip Moskowitz will not take place this week
WEDNESDAY• CUP OF JOE & KNOW
with Rabbi Efrem Goldberg will not take place this week• IN-DEPTH STUDY OF BOOK OF SAMUEL I with Malka Morris will not take place this week• MEN’S AFTERNOON KOLLEL will not take place this week• KABBALAH & SPIRITUALITY: THE INNER WISDOM OF
THE 5 BOOKS OF MOSES (BEGINNERS) with Anne Deakter will not take place this week• KABBALAH & SPIRITUALITY: THE INNER WISDOM OF
THE 5 BOOKS OF MOSES (ADVANCED) with Anne Deakter will not take place this weekTHURSDAY• AVIGAIL ROCK
with Rabbanit Avigail Rock will resume April 16• WEEKLY SHMOOZE
will not take place this week
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Please have in mind children and grandchildren of members of our community currently serving in the IDF: Amiel Abir, Asher Kaplan, Adam Barel, Daniella Borenstein, Yosef Brander, Stav Gare, Menachem Kaplan, Shabtai Kaplan, Daniel Louis, Albert Lupin, Charlie Pollack, Yakov Simcha ben Moshe Yisroel, Yehuda Strauss, Elad Shachar, Liel
Reinfeld, Ron Hirschhorn, Yehoshua Strauss, Amichai Berman, Matt Firestone, Dov Lieber, Leo Loeffler Chanan Wolfson, Eitan Yitzchak ben Etel Rochel, Noam Bar Yakov, Yuchiel Shlomo Lowenstern, Amir Tsarfati, Reuben Gladstone, Zoe Gladstone, Dean Tansman, Joshua Weiss, Hannah Katz and Zachary Solomon. If you have children or grandchildren currently serving in the IDF, please let us know their names so we can include them. Please have in mind our missing-in-action Israeli Soldiers.
PARENTS AND GRANDPARENTS OF IDF SOLDIERS The Emek Learning Center in Baka has a program that offers support to IDF Soldiers without families in Israel. If your child or grandchild is in the IDF and would like the center to reach out to them, please send Linda their name and contact information and it will be forwarded to the center. If you want to learn more about the center, the website is emeklearningcenter.com. Linda can be reached at [email protected] or by calling (561) 394-0394.
ISRAEL UPDATE
SOCIAL ACTIONAccording to the Times of Israel, Brig. Gen. Mohammad Reza Naqdi’, commander of the Basij militia of Iran’s Revolutionary Guards said in an interview that “Erasing Israel off the map is nonnegotiable,” The general’s comments were made public as Iran and six world powers chose to extend nuclear negotiations in a new phase aimed at reaching a comprehensive accord by the end of June. Congress has cautioned it would consider imposing new sanctions on Iran if there was no agreement in Lausanne this week. What should be “non-negotiable” in any agreement that is reached is acceptance of Israel’s right to exist and an end to the threats of annihilation. Tonight, we read in the Haggada, “In each generation, they rise up to destroy us.” We pray for divine protection in light of the many threats Jews in Israel are currently facing from Iran and its proxies. We must also, however, continue to write and call the White House, our elected officials and the media to express our support for a better deal with Iran and tougher sanctions if no
such deal materializes. President Obama 202-456-1111, Senator Bill Nelson 202-224-5274, Senator Marco Rubio 202-224-3041, Congressman Ted Deutch 202-225-3001, [email protected].
PLEASE KEEP IN YOUR PRAYERSJONATHAN POLLARD
Your letters - the only ray of light in Jonathan’s dreary cell. Write to him today: Jonathan Pollard #09185-016, c/o FCI Butner, P.O. Box 1000, Butner, North Carolina, U.S.A 27509-1000.Yehonatan ben Malka - Jonathan Pollard.Jonathan Pollard has been imprisoned in the United States since 1987. While working as an American civilian intelligence analyst, Pollard admitted to passing classified information to Israel. Although even his most ardent supporters agree that he was in the wrong and
guilty, the nature and length of his imprisonment is disproportionate and unparalleled. Join a multitude of prominent politicians, officials from the national intelligence world, and the legal world who have called for Pollard’s sentence to be commuted. For more information and to sign a petition, visit www.jonathanpollard.org.
WARREN WEINSTEINThe 72-year-old Weinstein, Yisrael Yitzchak ben Hannah Faygel, was a consultant for the US Agency for International Development in Pakistan when terrorists broke into his home in 2011 and dragged him away. Al Qaeda leader Ayman al-Zawahiri has since claimed to be holding him. Weinstein made news in a just-released video in which he pleads for President Obama to help. No Jew should ever feel abandoned or forgotten. Please add him to your prayers.
ROBERT ALAN “BOB” LEVINSONIs an American private investigator and retired DEA and CIA agent. He was taken hostage on March 9, 2007 when visiting Iran’s Kish Island and is currently the longest held hostage in American history.
ISRAEL DEFENSE FORCES (IDF)
NEW TIME FOR AVOS U’BANIMThe exciting Avos Ubanim father-son learning program on Shabbat afternoons will not take place this week, but will on the 8th day of Pesach Shabbat, April 11 at 5:10 pm in the Social Hall. Come join your friends for great learning, and prizes!
WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON: KOLLEL & WEDNESDAY NIGHT LEARNING PROGRAM
Please note that the Men’s Wednesday afternoon Kollel and Wednesday night learning program will not take place this week, and will resume after Pesach on Wednesday, April 15. The Monday afternoon Men’s Kollel is finished for the year, and will resume once again in the Fall.
THURSDAY NIGHT: MUSSAR SCHMOOZE & BBQ WINGSWill not take place this week and will resume after Pesach on Thursday April 16.
For more information about any of the programs taking place as part of the Beis Medrash of BRS or to be set up with a Chavruta, please contact our Rosh Beis Medrash, Rabbi Simmy Shabtai at [email protected]
BEIS MEDRASH of BRS
THURSDAY NIGHT: PARSHA CHABURAJoin Rabbi Simmy Shabtai on Thursday nights, 8:45 – 9:30 pm in the Senders Library for roundtable learning and insights on the weekly Parsha.
Page 9Boca Raton SynagogueValuing Diversity • Celebrating Unity
WEDNESDAY NIGHT COMMUNITY LEARNING
Please note that the Men’s Wednesday afternoon Kollel and Wednesday night learning program will not take place this week, and will resume after Pesach on Wednesday, April 15.
8:00 – 8:45 pm Shulchan Aruch Chabura
By: Rabbi David Shabtai, MD.
8:45 – 9:30 pm Mesillat Yesharim Chabura
By: Rabbi Matan Wexler
8:45 – 9:30 pm Chassidus Chabura
With our Shtiebel Minyan
8:45 – 9:30 pm High Level Bava Metzia Chabura
By: Rabbi Shaul OpoczynskiRosh Yeshiva of Tiferes Torah of Boca Raton.
Light refreshments will be served.
All levels welcome
Free of charge. Refreshments provided
Located in the BRS Social Hall
For more information, please contact the Rosh Beis Medrash, Rabbi Simmy Shabtai, at [email protected] or 347.439.7031
MEN’S AFTERNOON
KOLLEL
Congregation Torah OhrYoung Israel of
Deerfield Beach
Mondays3:00-3:45
Gemara Pesachim (2nd perek) with Rabbi David Shabtai, MD
3:45-4:30 Hilchot Tefilla
with Rabbi Simmy Shabtai
4:30-5:00 Mesilat Yesharim
Rabbi Yigal AbramchikRosh Yeshiva, Yeshiva Tiferes Torah of Boca Raton
Wednesdays3:00-4:00
Gemara Pesachim (10th perek) with Rabbi Efrem Goldberg
4:00-4:40 Hilchot Aveilut
with Rabbi Simmy Shabtai
4:40-5:00 Sefer Yona
with Rabbi Simmy Shabtai
NEW!
WILL RESUME
AFTER PESACH
CatCh the Spirit and join uS on a miSSion like no other!The Jewish Federation of South Palm Beach County is proud to announce the “Spirit of Israel” Community Mission. Make incredible memories and friends and catch the spirit of heritage, history, technology, adventure, Israeli culture and democracy. We will experience the best of what Israel has to offer, see unforgettable sites, meet people who are transforming the country and share the magic of our homeland.
• See the Innovation Nation• Meet with security experts• Attend sessions with government officials• Enjoy food, wine and culture• Experience outdoor adventures
PRICE: $3,200* per person – land only, double occupancy*$500 subsidy per person availableFor more information, contact Barbara Kabatznik at 561.852.6050 or [email protected].
COME & HEAR ABOUT THE TRIP ON MAY 5 AT BRS @7:30PM
The March of the Living is an annual educational program, which brings students from all over the world to Poland, in order to study the history of the Holocaust and to examine the roots of prejudice, intolerance and hate. Since the first March of the Living was held in 1988, over 200,000 participants, from 35 countries, have marched down the same path leading from Auschwitz to Birkenau on Holocaust Remembrance Day.
2015 marks the 70th anniversary of the end of World War IIFollow our journey with daily updates and pictures at
www.MOLsouth.org
SAVE THE DATEShabbat, May 2nd at Seudat Shlishiet
Come to hear from our local teens and adults as they share their personal stories about
their experience on the March of the Living!!
We Hope YOU Can Join USin ISRAEL!!
THURSDAY NIGHT: PARSHA CHABURAJoin Rabbi Simmy Shabtai on Thursday nights, 8:45 – 9:30 pm in the Senders Library for roundtable learning and insights on the weekly Parsha.
Page 11Boca Raton SynagogueValuing Diversity • Celebrating Unity
BRS YOUTH PROGRAMS
If you would like to help sponsor or donate to our Teen Kiddush, Teen Seudah Shlishiet, or any other program, or for more information about upcoming events and activities, please contact Rabbi Eli Zians at [email protected] or at (516) 451-2123. Wishing everyone a Shabbat Shalom!
Rabbi Eli Zians and the BRS Teen Department wishes everyone a beautiful, meaningful, phenomenal and
inspirational Pesach!
TEEN MINYAN Join us every day of Yom Tov at 9:45 am in
classrooms 104/105 followed by a delicious Kiddush and schmooze! Join us every week for your chance to win tons of prizes!! Heat tickets, Ipads,
and so much more but you gatta be in it to win it!!
LOOKING FOR AWESOME SUMMER PROGRAMS?
Searching for an incredible and inspirational summer? Search no more! Visit ncsysummer.org for more information!
RABBI EISENBERGER'S MISHNA CLASSThere will not be Mishna class until Shabbat Parshat Tazria - Metzora, April 18.
JUNIOR CONGREGATIONJunior Congregation will not be meeting until Shabbat Parhsat Tazria Metzora, April 18.
The children will be Davening in groups with their group leaders over Pesach
FAMILY MINYAN POSTPONEDThe Family Minyan that was supposed to take place last Shabbat is in the process of being re-
scheduled. Stay tuned for more information!
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To learn more about Dr. Okun’s research to prevent neurodegenerative diseases, go to
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Jewish and Zionist values are central to
Bar-Ilan’s initiatives in the sciences, law,
nanotechnology, engineering, business, the
humanities and its Medical School in Safed.
is the mission of Dr. Eitan Okun and his team at the Leslie and Susan Gonda (Goldschmied) Multidisciplinary Brain Research Center at Bar-Ilan University. By researching why people with Down syndrome are more prone to getting Alzheimer’s, Dr. Okun is making strides to develop a vaccine that will prevent Alzheimer’s in this high-risk group. The success of this project could lead to a general use vaccine. Dr. Okun is also conducting research to provide a better understanding of other neurodegenerative disorders, including Parkinson’s disease, Huntington’s disease and ischemic brain stroke.
Creating a DNA vaccine for Alzheimer’s disease
An ardent Zionist who lives on a kibbutz near the Gaza border, Dr. Okun says in part his research is driven by fulfilling the mitzvah of honoring the elderly – and most especially his father, who has dementia. He says, “It is my hope that by gaining a fuller understanding of what happens to our brains as we age, we will be able to help more people live fuller, more cognitively healthy lives.”
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www.helpingisraelfund.com The Helping Israel Fund is a 501(C) 3 public charity with the
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THANK YOU TO Daniel & Ellen Averbook, Joseph & Sarah Blumenthal, Michael & Sharona Loeffer, Yechiel & Margo Rosman, and Joe & Shira Sharp for donating their cars to BRS!
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6:00 pm - Live Skype Connection with March of the Living
(Social Hall)
6:45 pm - Mincha (Sephardic Beit Midrash)
7:00 pm - Community Wide Holocaust Commemoration
(Rand Sanctuary)
HAHN JUDAIC CAMPUS • 7900 MONTOYA CIRCLE N. BOCA RATON, FLORIDA 33433-4912 (561) 394-0394 • WWW.BRSONLINE.ORG • [email protected]
This year’s program will feature a video presentation that is the culmination of a year-long project where students from the Weinbaum Yeshiva High School were paired with Holocaust survivors to learn their stories and pledge to be a link in the chain of memory. Join us to witness the results of the students’ remarkable projects.
FREE BABYSITTING FOR CHILDREN IN
K-4 GRADE Advanced Registration
required. Please contact Rabbi Gershon Eisenberger
Also featuring the winning entries to the Holocaust Writing and Art Competition
Boca Raton Synagogue • Hahn Judaic Campus7900 Montoya Circle N. • Boca Raton, Florida 33433-4912
MIMOUNAH
Join the BRS Sephardic Minyan for a most exciting post-Pesach festive celebration at our Mimounah
Motza’ei Pesach - Saturday night, April 11 at 10:00 pm in the Social Hall
Traditional Mimounah delicacies, live music, and an exciting time
Open to the entire community at no charge.
Please bring a friend, or two, or ten and let’s celebrate extending the blessings of Pesach to the entire year