WEEKLY. Synagogue YU PARTNERSHIP WEEKEND. Boca Raton FRIDAY NIGHT SHABBAT DAY

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1 Boca Raton Synagogue WEEKLY PARSHAT KI TISA Stone Chumash Page 464 March 6 March 13, Adar 22 Adar 5775 This week s Weekly is sponsored by The Levinrad family in honor of Jacob becoming a Bar Mitzvah. RABBI EFREM GOLDBERG Marah D asrah reg@brsonline.org RABBI PHILIP MOSKOWITZ Associate Rabbi rpm@brsonline.org DAVID L. WOLGIN, PHD President president@brsonline.org RABBI DAVID SHABTAI, MD Rabbi, Sephardic Minyan rds@brsonline.org RABBI MORDECHAI SMOLARCIK Rabbi, BRS West rms@brsonline.org RABBI JOSH BROIDE Outreach Rabbi rjb@brsonline.org RABBI SIMMY SHABTAI Rosh Beis Medrash rss@brsonline.org RABBI KENNETH BRANDER Rabbi Emeritus rkb@brsonline.org MATTHEW HOCHERMAN Executive Director mjh@brsonline.org Candle Lighting Mincha/Kabbalat Shabbat Rabbi s Class Shabbat Mincha Ma ariv/havdalah YU PARTNERSHIP WEEKEND FRIDAY NIGHT SHABBAT DAY Why Do Jews Become Comedians? The Source of Jewish Laughter Rabbi Lawrence Hajioff 6:07 pm 6:10 pm 4:55 pm 5:55 pm 7:00 pm RABBI GERSHON EISENBERGER Youth Director rge@brsonline.org RABBI ELI ZIANS Teen Director rez@brsonline.org ESTHER LUPIN, LCSW BRS/JFS Social Worker esther@brsonline.org KERRY PURCELL Editor-in-Chief of the Weekly kerry@brsonline.org FRIEND Friend us on Facebook FOLLOW Follow us SHARE Check out Jewish Pride Films for our latest videos HAHN JUDAIC CAMPUS 7900 MONTOYA CIRCLE N. BOCA RATON, FLORIDA (561) FAX (561) OFFICE@BRSONLINE.ORG

2 FROM THE RABBI S DESK Now that Purim is behind us, the countdown to Pesach has officially begun, complete with its angst, anxiety, stress, and exhaustion. Sadly, many people associate Pesach with backbreaking work, exorbitant expenses, endless preparation, and bread deprivation. It is not unusual to hear moans, groans, and krechts coming from Bitter Herbs, Not Bitter People both men and women when mentioning the upcoming holiday. Many describe themselves as rolling into Pesach like a shmatta, unable to enjoy the festive atmosphere, meaningful Sedarim, or even quality time with friends and family. But this is not the way the Torah or our Rabbis intended it. I believe that the bulk of the stress, aches, and pains that result from Pesach preparation is self-induced and utterly unnecessary. True, there is a high cost of matzah, wine, and Kosher-for-Pesach groceries that cannot be avoided and are challenging particularly during these difficult economic times. However, the overly labor-intensive house preparations and extensive, arguably overly complicated menus and recipes can all be avoided. For some reason, Pesach has gotten away from us with the purely voluntary now becoming mandated standards and what should be the primary goals becoming almost entirely neglected and dismissed. Undoubtedly, halacha demands that we seek and destroy all chametz in our possession. Definitions of chametz, seek, and in our possession are all very clear and require a preparation of a home that should take only a few hours total. Areas and places where chametz is never brought don t need to be cleaned or checked (Shulchan Aruch o.c. 433:3). Appliances that will not be accessed or used need not be cleaned or checked; they simply need to be put away and sealed. Any food that is not categorized as edible (a dog would not eat it) is not considered chametz (Shulchan Aruch 442:2). There is no need to check for crumbs that are less than a k zias if they are dirty or soiled and wouldn t be edible by a human (Mishna Berura 442:33). Practically speaking, any cabinet, closet or room that will not be entered on Pesach, can simply be closed with a piece of tape across the door and any chametz contents in it sold. Any kitchen cabinet, drawer, or cupboard that will not be used on Pesach need not be cleaned at all; it just needs to be taped shut. Any appliance, food processor, sandwich maker, mixer, bread machine, etc. that will not be used, need not be cleaned whatsoever. They just need to Page 2 Valuing Diversity Celebrating Unity be put away for Pesach in a sealed space. Nevertheless, at some point in recent Jewish history, Pesach preparation was substituted with spring-cleaning. If one is moving a refrigerator, oven, or any other heavy appliance, he is spring cleaning, not preparing for Pesach. If one is climbing on a ladder to clean a ceiling fan, taking a toothpick to a toaster or food processor, scrubbing grout with a toothbrush, emptying and wiping all dressers, closets, linen pantries, crawl spaces, or shaking out books that haven t been opened in years, she is spring cleaning, not preparing for Pesach. Halacha demands that we go room to room confirming there is no chametz that is larger than 30 grams and edible. That can realistically be accomplished in a few hours at most in almost all of our homes. If you are spending days, weeks, or over a month cleaning, if you are worn down, exhausted and your back aches, blame your proclivity for spring cleaning, don t dare blame God or His wonderful holiday of Pesach. Make no mistake, this substitution of spring-cleaning instead of Pesach preparation comes at a great cost and it will likely hurt our community s attitude towards Pesach in the future. Rather than enter Pesach excited, enthusiastic, and energized to spend time with family and share divrei Torah at our Sedarim, we are increasingly becoming resentful and negative about being observant and burdened by Pesach. Rather than happy people eating bitter herbs to celebrate freedom, we are becoming bitter people exchanging our freedom for unnecessary burdens in anticipation of Pesach. Pesach, more than any other holiday or time of year, is designed to communicate our values, priorities and lifestyles to the next generation. Pesach, and the days leading up to it, should leave our children with sights, smells, flavors, traditions, and experiences they will draw from and seek to emulate in their own homes for the rest of their lives. It should provide memories and recollections that will inspire and charge the next generation in their Judaism and commitment to the beauty of a Torah lifestyle. Bedikas chametz, complete with its hide-and-seek nature, should be fun, exciting, and adventurous. Instead, for many it has become a chore that we unburden ourselves from as quickly as possible. Burning chametz, rolling matzah balls by hand, chopping charoses, grinding marror, setting the regal seder table, reenacting the Pesach story at our seders, welcoming visiting family, are among the activities that can be carried out with joy, enthusiasm, nostalgia, and meaning. Depleting ourselves of energy and joy by engaging in spring cleaning rather than Pesach preparation is not only depriving us of the simcha, joy, we are capable of feeling,

3 but it is indelibly impressing on our children negative memories and associations that will likely haunt them and shape their own attitude toward Pesach preparation and observance. By exerting all of our energy into that which is unnecessary, we have little left to do the things that make Pesach preparation fun and create the memories that our children and grandchildren will draw from throughout their lives. Today, you can buy bedikas chametz kits complete with numbered pieces of bread, packaged finely chopped charoses and even a jar of kosher for Pesach salt water. With all respect to the companies that have commercialized those mitzvos, I implore you, don t cave. I vividly remember how we prepared and hid the bread for bedikas chametz and that is how I taught my children to do it. I can easily picture my siblings and me competing over who got to chop the charoses and how my mother and grandmother lovingly added all the ingredients in their special recipe and it is that experience we try to create for our children today. Is adding salt to water so laborious that we can t put in even that effort to prepare for our seder table? quick to add that being happy on the holiday is a Biblical mandate and applies equally to men and women. Let s not allow spring cleaning or unnecessary stringencies to get in the way of fulfilling our duty to God, our children and ourselves of being happy, joyous, energetic, and enthusiastic. Over the next month, as we prepare for Pesach, let s remember what is essential and what is unnecessary, what is an obligation and what isn t even a mitzvah and most importantly, what will make our children love Pesach and what will cause them to resent it. Good Shabbos, Rabbi Efrem Goldberg As we enter the final countdown to Pesach this year, I beg you to ask yourself the question which sounds will ring in your children s ears in the future when they think back to Pesach in their home? Will it be moans, groans, bitterness and complaints or will they remember the joyous sounds of an energized family eagerly preparing for a meaningful Yom Tov? The Shulchan Aruch (529:2) tells us, Chayav adom liheyos sameach v tov leiv b moed. A person is obligated to be joyous and happy on the holiday. The Mishna Berura is Follow the Rabbi at twitter.com/ rabbigoldberg Friend the Rabbi on facebook Efrem Goldberg Share the Rabbi s blog on BOCA RATON SYNAGOGUE DERECH ERETZ STATEMENT In 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 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. 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. 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. When you Daven, please be conscious of the person next to you and Daven in a voice you can hear, but won t disturb your neighbor Children should be asked not to walk between or climb through rows of seats in front of others who are seated during services to collect candy. If you have a Mensch Message you would like us to promote, please us at office@brsonline.org Valuing Diversity Celebrating Unity Page 3

4 SHABBAT SCHEDULE FRIDAY NIGHT Friday Night Live: Please invite someone to this Outreach Program Sephardic Mincha () Candle Lighting Mincha/Kabbalat Shabbat () SHABBAT DAY 6:00 pm 6:05 pm 6:07 pm 6:10 pm Neitz Minyan () 5:55 am Hashkama Minyan () 7:30 am Sephardic Minyan () 8:30 am Ashkenazi Minyan () 9:00 am Sermon: Rabbi Lawrence Hajioff Shtiebel Minyan (Shtiebel Beit Midrash) 9:30 am Sof Zman Kriat Shema 9:35 am Teen Minyan (Berdugo Beit Midrash) 9:45 am Youth Tefillah Groups (Jacobs and Rubin Youth & Senior Center) 10:00 am Early Mincha () 3:00 pm Rabbi s Class 4:55 pm Why do Jews Become Comedians? The Source of Jewish Laughter Rabbi Lawrence Hajioff Sephardic Mincha () 5:50 pm Ashkenazi Mincha () 5:55 pm Daf Yomi (Berdugo Beit Midrash) between Mincha/Ma ariv Sh kiah 6:25 pm Ma ariv/havdalah 7:00 pm SHABBAT LEARNING Tefillah Insights with Rabbi Josh Broide () 8:30 am Advanced Gemara Chabura 15 minutes after Hashkama Minyan Rabbi Sacks Explanatory with Rabbi Broide (Board Room) 10:00 am Junior Congregation (Shechet Beit Midrash - Rooms 205 & 206) 10:00 am Youth Groups (Drop-off begins at 10:00 am) 10:30 am Sephardic Roundtable () 11:00 am Father & Son Learning () 4:00 pm PARSHIOT VAYAKEL-PEKUDEI SHABBAT PARAH Friday Night Live: Please invite someone to this Outreach Program 6:00 pm Sephardic Mincha () 6:00 pm Plag MIncha/Kabbalat Shabbat 6:00 pm Earliest Candle Lighting 6:14 pm Candle Lighting 7:10 pm Mincha/Kabbalat Shabbat () 7:15 pm Ma ariv/havdalah (Shabbat) 8:03 pm MAIN MINYAN GALA KIDDUSH SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES The Gala Kiddush is now in its second year and we need your help to make sure it continues! In order for the Kiddushim to continue, we need everyone s support. The Gala Kiddushim for this year are tentatively scheduled as follows: March 14, 2015 May 16, 2015 April 18, 2015 June 13, 2015 (Graduation Kiddush) We are very grateful to our Executive Chef Sponsors who contributed $1,000 for the year and our Sous Chef Sponsors who contributed $500 for the year. These sponsorships are what makes the Gala Kiddush possible. EXECUTIVE CHEF Dr. Albert & Evelyn Begas Donny & Dr. Freyda Cohen Martin & Ileana Flics Avi & Dr. Laura Greenbaum Drs. Jeffrey & Naomi Gross Dr. Kermit & Natalie Halperin Dr. Larry & Debra Halperin Yanki & Lauren Hofstatter Daniel & Caroline Katz Philip & Jennifer Landau Michael & Esther Lupin Anonymous SOUS CHEF Joseph Bensmihen Dr. Hillel & Chayi Cohen Leo & Heni Ehrlich Yaakov Kronfeld Dr. David & Reena Makover Dr. David Markowitz & Dr. Sara Levine Martin & Sara Schandelson Evan & Orly Shapiro Dr. Zorik & Ellen Spektor Anonymous SPONSORSHIP LEVELS Executive Chef Sponsor $1,000 Sous Chef Sponsor $500 Bar Mitzvah / Aufruf $360 Bat Mitzvah / New Baby / Engagement $250 Birthday / Anniversary $100 Grandchild / Other Occasion $100 Sponsorships are announced from the pulpit on Shabbat morning of the Kiddush and listed in the Weekly. If you would like to sponsor on any level in this coming year, please contact Matthew Hocherman at mjh@brsonline.org or our Kiddush Club chairs, Donny Cohen and Avi Greenbaum. BRS WEST (At the Hillel Day School, th Ave. (305) Mincha/Kabbalat Shabbat Candle lighting Rabbi s Class Shacharit Youth Groups Kiddush follows Davening Mincha (Shabbat) Shabbat Ends/ Maariv FRIDAY NIGHT SHABBAT DAY 6:00 pm 6:07 pm 8:45 am 9:30 am 10:30 am 5:50 pm 7:00 pm DAILY MINYAN TIMES Ashkenazi Shacharit 6:40 am Sephardic Shacharit 7:15 am Ashkenazi Shacharit 7:15 am Sephardic Shacharit 7:55 am Berdugo Beit Midrash Ashkenazi Shacharit 8:00 am Ashkenazi Shacharit 9:00 am Early Ashkenazi 2:00 pm Mincha Sephardic Mincha/Ma ariv 7:05 pm Ashkenazi Mincha/Ma ariv 7:10 pm Late Ashkenazi Ma ariv 9:30 pm SUNDAY MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY 6:40 am 7:15 am 7:00 am 7:55 am Berdugo Beit Midrash 7:45 am 8:30 am 3:05 pm 7:05 pm 7:10 pm 9:30 pm 6:40 am 7:15 am 7:00 am 7:55 am Berdugo Beit Midrash 7:45 am 8:30 am 3:40 pm 7:05 pm 7:10 pm 9:30 pm 6:40 am 7:15 am 7:00 am 7:55 am Berdugo Beit Midrash 7:45 am 8:30 am 3:05 pm 7:05 pm 7:10 pm 9:30 pm 6:35 am 7:15 am 7:00 am 7:55 am 7:45 am 8:30 am 3:05 pm 7:05 pm 7:10 pm 9:30 pm 6:35 am 7:15 am 7:00 am 7:55 am Berdugo Beit Midrash 7:45 am 8:30 am Page 4 Valuing Diversity Celebrating Unity

5 SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENTS MAZAL TOV Matthew & Tova Hocherman on the birth of their baby boy and baby girl, Abigail Maxine. AND to their proud big brother, Zev. Michael & Judith Perez on the birth of their daughter, Shoshana. AND to her proud siblings, Yael, Yaakov and Refael. AND her proud grandparents, Dr. Jamie & Rachel Bensimon. AND uncle Dan, aunt Liat and the Bensimon cousins. AND uncle Dan, aunt Leah and the Abittan cousins. Lex & Revi Levinrad on their son, Jacob, becoming a Bar Mitzvah. AND to his proud brother, Michael. AND grandparents, Baba Marisa Goldwasser and Zede Isaac Goldwasser of blessed memory. Dr. Bob & Elise Dolgow on the birth of their granddaughter. Her proud parents are Rachel & Joe Belleli. AND to her proud Aunt Ilana and Uncle Evan. Bonnie Pesacov on the engagement of her daughter, Malka Hizkiya to Binyomin Edinger of Baltimore, MD, son of Rabbi Naftoli and Ellen Edinger. AND to her siblings, Oren & Mushky and Arie Hizkiya. Dani & Shayndee Hiller on the forthcoming marriage of their granddaughter, Yedida Hiller, to Uri Carni, son of Abbe & Susie Carni of Teaneck, NJ. Her proud parents are Elie & Nanci Hiller of West Orange, NJ. Carol Smokler and Rabbi Josh Broide who are being honored at the I Am Hillel Gala on Tuesday night. Rabbi Moshe & Renee Mintz on their 55th wedding anniversary. KIDDUSH Hashkama Minyan Kiddush sponsored by the Hashkama Minyan Kiddush Fund Sephardic Minyan Kiddush sponsored by Joseph & Amy Kodsi in commemoration of the Yahrzeit of his beloved mother, Rachel Kodsi. Shtiebel Minyan Kiddush sponsored by Charles & Raquel Trachtenberg in honor of the Shtiebel Minyan Seudah Shlishiet co-sponsored by Lisa Kaufman Bensmihen, Rabbi Josh & Simone Broide, Sylvia Broide, Jean Cohen, Roger & Lisa Gladstone, Debra Halperin, Marvin & Myrna Hirschhorn, David & Joyce Muller, Norma Pollack, Dr. Stuart & Bonnie Rubinstein and Etoile Volin Guest Speaker: Rabbi Lawrence Hajioff CHANGE THE CLOCKS This Saturday night, March 7 ahead one hour. PRE-PESACH WINE TASTING AND SALE This Saturday night, March 7 starting at 7:30 pm in the. BENEATH THE HELMET THIS SATURDAY This Saturday night, March 7 at 8:00 pm in the. Free showing. Beneath the Helmet: From High School to the Home Front documents the dramatic transformation of five Israeli paratroopers from high school graduates to defenders of the State. Looking beyond uniforms, the film explores recruits personal lives, dreams, fears, and dilemmas, revealing the human side of Israel s military and the inspiring young people who make up the IDF. SECOND NIGHT PESACH SEDER AT BRS Need a break from the kitchen? Want to experience a Pesach like you ve never experienced it before? Leave your 2nd Seder to us! We will provide delicious food, uplifting singing, and beautiful Divrei Torah to enhance your Seder. People of all ages and backgrounds will love the liveliness and spirit of the BRS Seder. Come join Rabbi Efrem Goldberg and the entire Goldberg family for a Seder experience you won t forget! The cost to attend the Seder is $75 per person for BRS members and BRJE regulars and $90 per person for non-members. The cost for children ages 5 15 will be $35 per person. For more information or to sign up, visit The Seder is based on a first come, first served basis, and will be closed out at 120 participants. THE BRS GREETERS ARE HERE Don t be surprised if someone wishes you Good Shabbos as you enter the or offers you a Siddur and help finding a seat. It s part of our new initiative to make everyone feel welcome at BRS. We hope you will also greet a new member and/or guest or introduce yourself to someone you haven t met before. Contact Jessica Weiss at jjwimg@aol.com or Annette Shachter at agshachter@ gmail.com if you would like to be part of this committee. OLD PEOPLE In last weeks Purims Weekly, from top left to bottom right: 1. Jay Keehn 2. Alan Berger 3. Prosper Abitbol 4. Barry Schechter 5. Joey Loskove 6. Ed Reischenberg 7. Alan Veingrad 8. Dan Kaskel 9. Gershon Schwadron 10. Simon Mirsky 11. Matthew Hocherman 12. Rabbi Goldberg Valuing Diversity Celebrating Unity SHALOM ZACHAR & BRIT The Hocherman family warmly invites the entire community to a Shalom Zachar, tonight, Friday night, March 6, at 8:45 pm at the home of Jason & Nechama Zangre, 7839 San Marcos Place in Montoya Estates West. Brit details to follow. RABBI LAWRENCE HAJIOFF THIS SHABBAT SHABBAT MORNING DRASHA You Make Me So Mad! Working on Anger Issues and Other Character Traits SHABBAT AFTERNOON SHIUR 4:55 PM Why Do Jews Become Comedians? The Source of Jewish Laughter SEUDAH SHLISHIT Israel at the End of Days - Five Signs We Are Close Rabbi Lawrence Hajioff serves on the Judaic studies faculty of Stern College for Women. Originally from London, England, Rabbi Hajioff graduated with honors in political science from Manchester University. After working for two years for MTV in news production, and winning the national competition Jewish Stand-Up Comedian of the Year, Rabbi Hajioff traveled to study in Israel and then Monsey, NV to receive his rabbinical Smicha ordination from Yeshiva Ohr Somayach. Rabbi Hajioff has worked extensively with young Jewish drug addicts, and, in 2005, Rabbi Hajioff joined the faculty of Stern College for Women at Yeshiva University, where he has received the Professor of the Year award. Rabbi Hajioff also works for Birthright Israel in New York as their official Rabbi and educational director. COSTUME GEMACH We are proud to announce a Costume Gemach for the BRS community. Please donate and drop off any used or unwanted costumes at the home of Steven & Keri Greenfield Alyssum Way in Thornhill Green - feel free to leave them at the front door any time. Please make sure size is indicated. We ask that all costumes are returned cleaned and in good shape. Suggested donation is $10 per family. All proceeds will go to the BRS Rabbis Discretionary Fund. If you have any questions, please contact Shani Muschel at smuschel@ gmail.com or Keri Greenfield at kerigreenfield@hotmail.com. You can also Keri for pick-up at your home. FERTILITY SUPPORT Chizuk Boca, our fertility support group, is pleased to feature our first guest speaker, Mrs. Elisheva Levitt. She will talk about her experience with surrogacy. This will take place at the on Sunday, March 15 at 10:00 a.m. in the Board Room. This event is open to anyone who can benefit, women only. Please rsvp at Esther@ brsonline.org. Page 5

6 WEEK AT A GLANCE DAILY DAF YOMI (Sunday - Friday) with Rabbi Ben Sugerman at 7:00 am in Rooms 211/212. MISHNA BERURA YOMI (Sunday -Thursday) 15 minutes before Mincha NIGHT BEIT MIDRASH (Sunday - Thursday) community learning in the at 8:00 pm NIGHTTIME DAF YOMI (Sunday - Thursday) with BRS Rabbinate at 8:40 pm in Rooms 104/105 MONDAY HEBREW POETRY with Hassia Yehuda will not take place this week MEN S AFTERNOON KOLLEL 3:00-5:00 pm in the TUESDAY PARSHA CLASS with Rabbi Efrem Goldberg at 9:30 am in the SEFER DANIEL CLASS with Rabbi Philip Moskowitz will not take place this week PEOPLE OF THE BOOK with Rabbi Kassorla at 7:30 pm in the WEDNESDAY CUP OF JOE & KNOW with Rabbi Efrem Goldberg after 7:45 am Minyan in the Rand Sanctuary IN-DEPTH STUDY OF BOOK OF SAMUEL I with Malka Morris at 9:30 am in the MEN S AFTERNOON KOLLEL 3:00-5:00 pm in the KABBALAH & SPIRITUALITY: THE INNER WISDOM OF THE 5 BOOKS OF MOSES (BEGINNERS) with Anne Deakter at 7:00 pm in Room 101 KABBALAH & SPIRITUALITY: THE INNER WISDOM OF THE 5 BOOKS OF MOSES (ADVANCED) with Anne Deakter at 8:30 pm in Room 101 THURSDAY WEEKLY SHMOOZE at 9:45 pm in the LIFE CYCLE BIRTHDAYS Nachum Caplan Rabbi Avi Greene Ahuva Broide Shoshana Galbut Joseph Bensmihen Simcha Rosen Adina Galbut Arnold Bramnick Yocheved Goldberg ANNIVERSARIES Dr. Leora & Gaby Skoczylas Rabbi Moshe & Renee Mintz WELCOME TO THE COMMUNITY Marisa Goldwasser Jason Hocherman The Braker Family, Jeff, Michal, Natalie and Daniel Mario and Noga Sztern Darryl Pikoos Arik Deutch Family & Friends here in honor of the Levinrad Simcha LIFE CYCLE CONDOLENCES TO Naomi Cohn on the passing of her beloved father, Joe Weiss. APPRECIATION Rosalie Somsky expresses heartfelt thanks to Rabbi Goldberg, Rabbi Moskowitz, and the community for the outpouring of love and support that her family received during their recent bereavement. REFUAH SHLAYMAH For members of BRS Community. For all other Refuah Shlaymah needs, please call Linda at (561) Moshe Applebaum Moshe Zvi ben Rachel Leah Yosef Chaim ben Faiga Merv Jacobs Meir ben Sarah Stuart Silverman Yeshaya Moshe ben Nacha Sarah Nachum Gedalia ben Sara Baila Mordechai ben Malka Yerachmiel Pincus ben Malka Yonatan Chaim ben Yehudit Rabbi Philip Moskowitz Harav Gavriel Pinchas ben Devorah Zlata YAHRZEITS Cara Beim in memory of her mother Joseph Blumenthal in memory of his sister Carol Hordish in memory of her mother Sarah Margolies in memory of her mother Paul S. Pariser in memory of his father Etta-Linda Pell in memory of her father Frances Sigal in memory of her mother Dr. Daniel Sheinbein in memory of his mother Ari Bernstein in memory of his grandmother Debra Halperin in memory of her mother Shayndee Hiller in memory of her sister Chaim Silberman in memory of his mother Dr. Bob Dolgow in memory of his mother Jean Cohen in memory of her son Shulamit Amsalem in memory of her grandfather Israel Margolies in memory of his sister Rabbi Josh Broide in memory of his grandfather Sylvia Broide in memory of her father Ruda Berkowitz in memory of her father Jacob Plotkin in memory of his mother Dr. Eric Gordon in memory of his brother Ira Lome in memory of his mother Dr. Stuart Rubinstein in memory of his mother Jacquie Padow in memory of her brother Francine Solomon in memory of her mother Barry Okoskin in memory of his father Dr. Aaron Kaweblum in memory of his sister Larry Pomeranz in memory of his mother Yehuda Ouaknine in memory of his father Ira Schwartz in memory of his father Moshe Leib Stuart in memory of his grandfather Etoile Volin in memory of her husband Rabbi Samuel Fox in memory of his mother Chaya Berdugo in memory of her grandfather Marilyn Weigensberg in memory of her mother Rabbi Leonard Small in memory of his mother Marco Revah in memory of his sister Moshe Leib Stuart in memory of his father Lisa Gladstone in memory of her father Lisa Kaufman Bensmihen in memory of her father Marvin Hirschhorn in memory of his grandfather Michael Lupin in memory of his sister Tzila Barel in memory of her mother Dr. Barbara Barry in memory of her father Norma Pollack in memory of her mother Iris Weiss in memory of her father Joyce Muller in memory of her mother Murray Goldberg in memory of his sister Roger Gladstone in memory of his father Helen Ijac Alta Haita bat Devorah Joan Noven Rochel Tova bat Malka Ariella Berman Ariella Sarah bat Elisheva Malka Beverly Kassirer Briendle bat Pessel Chana Guta bat Rochel Ruth Malinowitz Rivka bat Freyda Noa Maya Carmel Noa Maya bat Devora Rachel Perel bat Chaya Sara Jacquie Padow Ya akova Chava Rus bat Beyla Or Ester bat Dina Rivka Wendy Wasserstrom Zehava bat Chaya Lily Lerman Libi Chana bat Golda Chava Lorraine Friedman, 15 Adar Lorraine Friedman, 15 Adar Anita Wiener, 15 Adar Miriam Fain, 16 Adar Michael Pariser, 16 Adar Nathan Pell, 16 Adar Esther Malka Pincus, 16 Adar Dvora Sheinbein, 16 Adar Sara Egozi, 16 Adar Gladys Moore, 16 Adar Elaine Nussbaum, 16 Adar Zipporah Silberman, 16 Adar Ethel Dolgow, 17 Adar Michael Cohen, 17 Adar David Fas, 17 Adar Bella Gitelman, 18 Adar Sol Katz, 18 Adar Sol Katz, 18 Adar Avraham Plewinski, 18 Adar Selethel Plotkin, 18 Adar Lawrence Gordon, 18 Adar Elinor Lome, 18 Adar Eunice Rubinstein, 18 Adar Michael Winters, 19 Adar Ray Heitner, 19 Adar Irving Okoskin, 19 Adar Esther Kaweblum, 19 Adar Gail Pomeranz, 19 Adar Robert Oaknine, 19 Adar Max Schwartz, 19 Adar Jack Schneider, 19 Adar Robert Volin, 19 Adar Anna Fox, 20 Adar Richard Peyser, 20 Adar Ida Bierman, 20 Adar Ethel Small, 20 Adar Sylvia Revah, 20 Adar Michael Stuart, 20 Adar Leo Chizner, 21 Adar Mort Kaufman, 21 Adar Nathan Hirschhorn, 21 Adar Lois Salzman, 21 Adar Julia Zanzuri, 21 Adar Alfred Conick, 21 Adar Mildred Gottlieb, 22 Adar Julius Mollach, 22 Adar Frieda Siegel, 22 Adar Sonia Tick, 22 Adar William B. Gladstone, 22 Adar Page 6 Valuing Diversity Celebrating Unity

7 BRS AUXILIARIES, ETC. BIKUR CHOLIM On March 22, at 9:00 am if you would like to help Kasher the Jewish Hospitality Room and Shabbat Suite at the Boca Raton Regional Hospital, please call Stan at (561) PLEASE SUPPORT THE COMMUNITY ERUV The 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 London Lane, Boca Raton, Fl The Eruv needs your caring support JUST DO IT!! PIM - PERSONAL INVOLVEMENT MATTERS HOLOCAUST WRITING AND ART COMPETITION Theme: Never Again Begins with Me: How can we take personal responsibility to help make the world a better place and ensure that the Holocaust never happens again? This KADISH initiative contest is open to students in grades 6-8 in Boca Raton, Florida. WRITING: may be prose (essay or story), poetry, or a play, 750 words or less. ART original drawings or paintings only - NO SWASTIKAS. Art piece MUST include an artist s statement, not more than 100 words, describing your piece and inspiration. Submit entries February 25, - March 25. For registration and detailed information, visit www. brsonline.org/pim. All entries will be displayed at the Boca Raton Synagogue Annual Yom Hashoah Ceremony on April 16. Please see flyers in the lobby. THE PILLAR SOCIETY CAMPAIGN PILLAR SOCIETY EMERALD Daniel & Caroline Katz Paul S. & Lynn H. Pariser PLATINUM Leo & Heni Ehrlich Martin & Ileana Flics Bernie & Melanie Kaminetsky Lothar & Carlyn Mayer Dr. William & Debbie Rand Michael & Jill Rose Larry & Deborah Silver Harry & Marilyn Wanderer GOLD Daniel & Dr. Liora Adler Dr. Albert & Evelyn Begas Howard & Bonnie Block Dr. Steve & Yael Charlap Donny & Dr. Freyda Cohen Drs. Eli and Orlie Cohen Dr. Hillel & Chayi Cohen Dr. Meyer & Laura Cohen Nachman & Jamie Feig Dr. Mark & Tilda Fisher Dr. Ben & Cara Freedman Michael & Barbara Frenkel Hensha Gansbourg Rabbi Efrem & Yocheved Goldberg Murray & Basheva Goldberg Glen & Rosa Golish Drs. Charles & Simone Griff Stanley & Ana Haar Dr. Larry & Debra Halperin Dr. Chanoch & Rachel Harow Ben & Hanna Henschel Dr. Moshe & Shari Hirth Yanki & Lauren Hofstatter Dr. Mervin & Elaine Jacobs Dr. David & Sharona Kay Gary & Judi Krasna Yaakov Kronfeld Drs. Joseph & Seema Loskove Stephen & Linda Melcer Bob & Penny Pearlman Dr. Michael & Dana Petrover Dr. Daniel & Rachel Rudensky Mike Senders Dr. Leor & Gabriela Skoczylas Dr. Zorik & Ellen Spektor Teddy & Linda Struhl Dr. Jonathan & Suri Winograd Drs. Allen & Amy Wolnerman Michael & Risa Zimmerman Anonymous Anonymous SAPPHIRE Dr. Mark & Helen Cohan Rabbi Simcha & Anna Freedman Elaine Trachtenberg Dr. Neal & Bonnie Weinreb Anonymous SILVER Dr. Avraham & Elana Belizon Evan & Orly Shapiro Dr. Josh & Stephanie Stern Dr. Ashi & Chava Weisstuch Anonymous List in formation NEW PILLAR SOCIETY CATEGORY We 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 mjh@brsonline.org or (561) Valuing Diversity Celebrating Unity Page 7

8 ISRAEL UPDATE SOCIAL ACTION In speeches before AIPAC and a joint session of Congress this week, Prime Minister Netanyahu outlined the existential threat to Israel posed by a nuclear Iran, and why the current deal being offered by the P5+1 is a bad deal. A second serious threat comes from those who would delegitimize our homeland by calling for a boycott of Israeli products, divestment, and sanctions. You can do your part to counter these attempts to undermine Israel s economy by joining us this Sunday, March 8, 11:00-1:00 at Buy Israeli Goods (BIG) Day at BRS. Co-sponsored by Stand With Us and with the support of eight local synagogues, the event will feature Michelle Rojas-Tal, SWU s International Diaspora Education Director, a break-out session for teen-agers, vendors displaying Israeli products and a wine tasting. It is vital for stores to stock Israeli goods, and everyone is encouraged to purchase items produced in Israel locally and on-line. Please support BIG day by hitting the stores running. Also, remember as you begin your Pesach shopping to look for Israeli products. 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 linda@brsonline.org or by calling (561) 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, Jeremy Siegman, Daniel Louis, Arie Hizkiya, 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. Page 8 PLEASE KEEP IN YOUR PRAYERS JONATHAN POLLARD Your letters - the only ray of light in Jonathan s dreary cell. Write to him today: Jonathan Pollard # , c/o FCI Butner, P.O. Box 1000, Butner, North Carolina, U.S.A Yehonatan ben Malka - Jonathan Pollard. Jonathan Pollard has been imprisoned in the United States since 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 WARREN WEINSTEIN The 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. ISRAEL DEFENSE FORCES (IDF) Valuing Diversity Celebrating Unity

9 BEIS MEDRASH of BRS MOTZEI SHABBAT: AVOT U BANIM LEARNING PROGRAM BRS Night Seder is proud to continue our Motzei Shabbat Avot U Banim learning program that will run throughout the winter months. This program is designed for Chavruta learning between fathers and their sons who are in 4th grade and above and takes place in the. Following the learning, there will be donuts, pizza, and a raffle. This week s Dvar Torah will be given by Dovi Herschberg. Please note that Avot U Banim now begins at 7:30 pm and concludes at 8:30 pm. TIME CHANGE: Please note that Avot Ubanim will take place next week one hour before Mincha on Shabbat day. For sponsorship opportunities, please speak with Rabbi Simmy Shabtai. SUNDAY NIGHT: HALACHOT OF DAILY LIFE CHABURA Join Rabbi Simmy Shabtai on Sunday nights, 8:00 8:45 pm in the for group learning on the Halachot of day-to-day life (Tefillah, Brachot, Etc.). TUESDAY NIGHT: 7TH & 8TH GRADE GEMARA CHABURA Come to the on Tuesday nights, 8:00 8:45 pm and join your 7th and 8th grade friends for guided learning in Masechet Brachot by Rabbi Simmy Shabtai. THURSDAY NIGHT: PARSHA CHABURA Join Rabbi Simmy Shabtai on Thursday nights, 8:45 9:30 pm in the for roundtable learning and insights on the weekly Parsha. THURSDAY NIGHT: MUSSAR SCHMOOZE & BBQ WINGS Come to the after the 9:30 pm Ma ariv to hear words of Mussar and inspiration from various rabbinic personalities from within our community. Famous BBQ wings from Chef Gersh will be served. All levels welcome Located in the BRS Free of charge. Refreshments provided MEN S AFTERNOON KOLLEL Mondays NEW! 3:00-3:45 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 Abramchik Rosh Yeshiva, Yeshiva Tiferes Torah of Boca Raton Wednesdays 3:00-4:00 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 For more information, please contact the Rosh Beis Medrash, Rabbi Simmy Shabtai, at rss@brsonline.org or WEDNESDAY NIGHT COMMUNITY LEARNING Participate in our vibrant Wednesday Night Learning Program, taking place between 8:00 and 10:00 pm in the as we are joined by Yeshiva Tiferes Torah of Boca Raton. In addition to Chavruta learning, we will be having the following Chaburas take place: 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 Opoczynski Rosh Yeshiva of Tiferes Torah of Boca Raton. Light refreshments will be served. Young Israel of Deerfield Beach Congregation Torah Ohr 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 rss@brsonline.org

10 BRS TEEN MINYAN BBQ Sunday, March 15, all teens from Teen Minyan are invited to our Teen BBQ. The BIGGEST problem will be too many meats to choose from! Details TBA. TEEN MINYAN Join us every Shabbat 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! 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 REZ@brsonline.org or at (516) Wishing everyone a Shabbat Shalom! BRS YOUTH PROGRAMS RABBI EISENBERGER S MISHNA CLASS We are continuing our journey through Shisha Sidrei Mishna as we learn Masechet Sh vuot. Join us every week for an incredible learning experience. Junior Kiddush each week. 9:30 am - 10:00 am in Room 102. JUNIOR CONGREGATION Daven with your friends each and every week with Boca s new star Rebbe, Rabbi Matan Wexler. Great stories, singing, Parsha, and special treats!!! 5TH GRADE SEUDAH SHLISHEIT Get ready for the next meeting on March 14th - Parashat Vayakhel-Pekudei. Open to all 5th grade girls. For additional information, contact Sara Schandelson Tel: (561) or Jackie Lome Tel: (561) Page 10 Valuing Diversity Celebrating Unity

11 SHABBAT ACROSS Friday, March 13th Boca raton Synagogue Join hundreds of synagogues across the continent that will take part in an historic national Jewish event to celebrate what unifies all Jews... Shabbat! FRIdAy NIght LIvE At 6:00pM ShABBAt dinner At 7:00pM For more info, please contact Simone (561) Adults $25 ~ Children (under 10) $10 please make checks payable to Join us this week at 6:00pm in the!! Join more than 200 people from all over Boca Raton on this trip!! Call Josh for more information (561)

12 Tax Prep & Planning Corporate, Partnership, Individual & Trust Returns (All States) Financial Statements Business Start-up, Consulting & Incorporation QuickBooks & Payroll Services Healthcare Accounting Outsourced CFO services Complimentary Initial Consultation BRS MEMBER SINCE YEARS EXPERIENCE ALLCPA.NET - ALLCPA@AOL.COM PAID ADVERTISEMENTS Stuart A. Rubin, M.D. Board Certified: Rehab Medicine / Pain Boynton Beach Deerfield Beach Do You Remember When it did not hurt? Musculoskeletal Medicine Epidural and Joint Injections Balance and Fall Clinic Stroke and Cancer Recovery Sports Medicine EMG-Disability Acupuncture Sheri Strauss, DBA GreenSeed Tutoring Services We Plant Academic Success Standardized Test Preparation Application Essays Language Arts Academic Support Melinda S. Ruben, M.Ed. ~ melinda@greenseedtutoring.com SILVERSMITH & RESTORATIONS Repairs, refinish, appraisals, Silverware-Hollow-ware, Judica 65 yrs. experience MOE KUSHNER (954) PAID ADVERTISEMENTS

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15 MONDAY, MARCH 23, th Annual Journal Dinner Will take place at Congregation B Nai Israel, 2200 Yamato Road, Boca Raton, FL JOIN US AS WE HONOR Dr. Bernie & Melanie Kaminetsky JOURNAL HONOREES Noam & Jill Kaminetzky KETER SHEM TOV AWARD Linda Gordon IN HONOR OF HER 18 YEARS OF DEDICATED SERVICE TO BRS Ad Blanks are available in the Shul lobby. For more information or to join the Tribute Committee, please contact Matthew Hocherman at mjh@brsonline.org. Sal & Leslie Abady Dr. Prosper & Pamela Abitbol NEW Daniel & Dr. Liora Adler** Asia of Boca Raton NEW Dr. Albert & Evelyn Begas** Steven Berkeley & Dr. Rebecca Stern Howard & Bonnie Block** BRS Men s Club BRS Sephardic Minyan BRS Shabbat Morning Haftorah Group BRS Sisterhood Dr. Issy & Riwella Bruk* Butters Construction CEK Caterers Dr. Steve & Yael Charlap** Donny & Dr. Freyda Cohen** Drs. Eli & Orlie Cohen** Dr. Hillel & Chayi Cohen** Dr. Meyer & Laura Cohen** Bob & Michelle Diener Dr. Bob & Elise Dolgow Leo & Heni Ehrlich*** Chaim & Rebecca Elkoby Robert & Ruth Epstein NEW Nachman & Jamie Feig** Drs. Brian & Sharon Ferber Alan & Mona Fisher Dr. Mark & Tilda Fisher** Martin & Ileana Flics*** Dr. Ben & Cara Freedman** Michael & Barbara Frenkel** Hensha Gansbourg** Tony & Judy Gelbart Rabbi Efrem & Yocheved Goldberg** Murray & Basheva Goldberg** Glen & Rosa Golish** Dr. Eric & Sarah Gordon Richard & Marlene Gordon Drs. Charles & Simone Griff** Gutterman Warheit Memorial Chapel Stanley & Ana Haar** Dr. Larry & Debra Halperin** Dr. Chanoch & Rachel Harow** Drs. Samuel & Anita Heering Ben & Hanna Henschel** Dr. Moshe & Shari Hirth** Yanki & Lauren Hofstatter** Dr. Mervin & Elaine Jacobs** Dr. Bernie & Melanie Kaminetsky*** Daniel & Caroline Katz**** TRIBUTE COMMITTEE (In formation) Lisa Kaufman - Boca Home Care Dr. David & Sharona Kay** Dr. Steven & Marjorie Kellner NEW King David Catering Gary & Judi Krasna** Yaakov Kronfeld** LAN Infotech Philip & Jennifer Landau Howard & Elayne Levkowitz Robert & Linda Levy NEW Drs. Joseph & Seema Loskove** Dr. David & Reena Makover Kosher Marketplace Lothar & Carlyn Mayer*** MDVIP NEW Stephen & Linda Melcer** David & Joyce Muller Paul S. & Lynn H. Pariser**** Bob & Penny Pearlman** Joe Persky Dr. Michael & Dana Petrover** Dr. William & Debbie Rand*** Rome Aire Services, Inc. Michael & Jill Rose*** Dr. Daniel & Rachel Rudensky** George & Stephanie Saks* Dr. Barry & Dana Schechter Mike Senders** Larry & Deborah Silver*** Dr. Barry & Judy Silverman Dr. Leor & Gabriela Skoczylas** Dr. Zorik & Ellen Spektor** Eric & Loren Stein Teddy & Linda Struhl** Warren & Robin Struhl NEW Elaine Trachtenberg* Dr. Benjamin & Donna Tripp Dr. Jackie & Rachel Tripp Vazquez & Sons Landscaping VIP Caterers Harry & Marilyn Wanderer*** Dr. Neal & Bonnie Weinreb* Dr. Jonathan & Suri Winograd** Dr. Jeff & Fay Wolkowicz Drs. Allen & Amy Wolnerman** Michael & Risa Zimmerman** Anonymous** Anonymous** Anonymous Emerald Pillar Society Member**** Platinum Pillar Society Member*** Gold Pillar Society Member** Sapphire Pillar Society Member*

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