WEEKLY. PARSHAT YITRO February 10 - February 17, Shevat - 24 Shevat Synagogue. Boca Raton SCHEDULE

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1 Boca Raton Synagogue WEEKLY PARSHAT YITRO February 10 - February 17, Shevat - 24 Shevat 5772 RABBI EFREM GOLDBERG Marah D asrah RABBI PHILIP MOSKOWITZ Assistant Rabbi DANIEL J. KATZ President RABBI JOSH BROIDE Outreach Rabbi RABBI URI PILICHOWSKI Teen Rabbi SCHEDULE Candle Lighting Mincha/Kabbalat Shabbat 5:51 pm 5:55 pm Shabbat Class 4:40 pm The Distinguished Decalogue: What s Special about the Ten Commandments? Rabbi Efrem Goldberg Shabbat Mincha 5:40 pm Ma ariv / Havadalah 6:46 pm RABBI MORDECHAI SMOLARCIK Rabbi, BRS West RABBI KENNETH BRANDER Rabbi Emeritus MATTHEW HOCHERMAN Synagogue Administrator ALIZA PILICHOWSKI Youth Director KERRY PURCELL Editor-in-Chief of the Weekly Friend us on Facebook Boca Raton Synagogue GET CONNECTED FRIEND FOLLOW SHARE Follow us @MatthewJHoch HAHN JUDAIC CAMPUS 7900 MONTOYA CIRCLE N. BOCA RATON, FLORIDA (561) FAX (561) OFFICE@BRSONLINE.ORG Check out Jewish Pride Films for our latest videos

2 FROM THE RABBI S DESK Eleven Rabbis from across North America gathered in Boca this week for a day and a half of meetings, under the auspices of the Orthodox Union. The Legacy Group, as we have affectionately been titled by OU leadership, convenes twice a year to discuss and compare what is happening in our communities, commiserate over challenges, share best practices and inspire one another to collectively confront some of the ills that plague our people. What are You Doing to Heal the Divide? A theme that emerged from our conversation was the horrible disunity, discord and divide among the Jewish people from all directions. The left is just as intolerant of the right as the right is of them. Those that define themselves as the center are often dismissive of anyone unlike them. A famous comedian once observed, Anyone driving slower than you is an idiot, and anyone going faster than you is a maniac. For many a similar description applies to their religious orientation and practice. How can we close the gaps that are dividing our people? How can we heal the wounds of marginalization that have hurt so many individuals and communities? How can we restore the feeling of achdus, unity and harmony that characterized the moment of receiving the Torah described in this week s parsha? The Legacy Group came to a simple conclusion: One on one interpersonal relationships, friendships and bonds. You see, it is easy to dismiss, demonize and reject whole groups, philosophies or lifestyles. It is much more difficult to speak negatively and critically of someone with whom you share a rapport. If we are to heal our people, we must get so called right wing Roshei Yeshiva to sit and talk with YU Roshei Yeshiva. We must reach out to colleagues from Reform, Conservative and Liberal Orthodoxy to build warm, personal relationships around what we share in common. If the leaders at the top can get to know one another and feel a kinship together, we can put a stop to hurtful proclamations and statements that serve to divide, and replace them with encouragement and efforts to unite. Indeed, it was this motivation that two weeks ago led me to a decision that I am so happy I made. Rabbi Richard Agler, who recently retired as the Sr. Rabbi of Congregation B nai Israel, a Reform Congregation, suffered a terrible tragedy when a car struck and killed his 27 year old daughter as she was jogging. To be honest, I don t have a particularly close relationship with the Aglers. In light of his recent retirement, we will unlikely overlap in a professional capacity moving forward. However, despite the reasons to do nothing, I decided that the proper thing to do, if for no other reason than my role in the Orthodox community of Boca, was to pay a shiva call. And so, Rabbi Broide and I went to the Agler s home to simply communicate that we care, feel their pain and pray for their comfort. The time we spent together and the inspiration Rabbi Broide and I received that day, were remarkable. I asked Rabbi Agler how this tragedy impacts his faith in the Almighty? As a Rabbi, he undoubtedly has spoken about bad things happening to good people, but now he has lived it. His answer blew me away. He said, My Judaism, my relationship with God and my faith are what empowered me to raise such a wonderful daughter and these values are what gave her life meaning and purpose. Why would I throw away the very things that made her so special, just because she was taken so prematurely and tragically? Faith allowed me to raise a special daughter, and faith will guide me through the tragedy of her death. At the end of the time we spent together, Rabbi Agler and I had the same observation. Why did it take a tragedy for us to spend some quality time together? The result of that interaction coupled with the discussion at the OU Legacy meetings is a renewed sense of commitment I feel to reach out to my colleagues in every direction and work to build genuine friendships and warms bonds. Healing our people is not just the job of Rabbis, it is the responsibility of every caring Jew. Let s work together to restore that feeling at Sinai, k ish echad b lev echad, one people with one heart. Shabbat Shalom Follow the Rabbi at twitter.com/ rabbigoldberg Friend the Rabbi on facebook Efrem Goldberg Share the Rabbi s blog on Rabbi Efrem Goldberg BRS OUTREACH REVOLUTION On Friday night, March 2, hundreds of synagogues across the continent will take part in an historic national Jewish event to celebrate what unifies all Jews -- Shabbat! Everyone is invited to Boca Raton Synagogue as we celebrate this annual event... singles, couples, families -- all ages. So bring your neighbors, your friends, your co-workers -- and let s celebrate, together! Shabbat Across America/Canada is an unparalleled display of unity and Ahavat Yisrael, created in the hope of making certain that every North American Jew will have the opportunity to celebrate Shabbat! Imagine an entire Friday evening dinner devoted to people who want to know more about Judaism! It s an interactive prayer service, joyous Shabbat dinner complete with song, ritual and lively discussion. It is fun-filled evening of camaraderie that unifies Jews everywhere as one people. Tens of thousands of Jews at hundreds of locations across North America celebrated Shabbat together on March 2nd, many for the first time! For more information about registering for Shabbat Across America at, please visit org. Inspire yourself to inspire others Josh Join us on March 11 Page 2

3 PARSHA Q & A QUESTIONS 1. Yitro had 7 names. Why was one of his names Yeter? 2. News of which two events motivated Yitro to come join the Jewish People? 3. Why was Tzipora with her father, Yitro, and not with Moshe when Bnei Yisrael left Egypt? 4. According to the Midrash quoted by Rashi, how did Yitro respond when he was told about the destruction of Egypt? 5. On what day did Moshe sit to judge the Jewish People? 6. Moshe sat to judge the people, and the people stood before Moshe... What bothered Yitro about this arrangement? 7. Why did Yitro return to his own land? 8. How did the encampment at Sinai differ from the other encampments? 9. What was G-d s original plan for Matan Torah? What was the response of the Jewish People? 10. How is it derived that Don t steal refers to kidnapping? PARSHA SUMMARY Yitro comes from Midian. Yitro, (Moshe s father-in-law) brought Tzipora and his sons to join Moshe in Rephidim. Yitro, acknowledged Hashem s powers and offered sacrifices to Him. Yitro advised Moshe to appoint judges to assist him, since he was overburdened with judicial duties. Preparations for Receiving Torah. On the first day of Sivan, the Jews arrived in the Sinai wilderness, where they encamped in front of the mountain. The people were told to prepare themselves for three days to receive the Torah and not to touch the boundaries of the mountain. All references are to the verses and Rashi s commentary, unless otherwise stated. 1. Yitro had 7 names. Why was one of his names Yeter? 18:1 - Because he caused a Parsha to be added to the Torah. Yeter means addition. 2. News of which two events motivated Yitro to come join the Jewish People? 18:1 - The splitting of the sea and the war against Amalek. 3. Why was Tzipora with her father, Yitro, and not with Moshe when Bnei Yisrael left Egypt? 18:3 - When Aharon met Moshe with his family on their way down to Egypt, Aharon said to Moshe: We re pained over the Jews already in Egypt, and you re bringing more Jews to Egypt? Moshe, hearing this, sent his wife and children back to Midian. 4. According to the Midrash quoted by Rashi, how did Yitro respond when he was told about the destruction of Egypt? 18:9 - He grieved. 5. On what day did Moshe sit to judge the Jewish People? 18:13 - The day after Yom Kippur. 6. Moshe sat to judge the people, and the people stood before Moshe... What bothered Yitro about this arrangement? 18:14 - Yitro felt that the people weren t being treated with the proper respect. 7. Why did Yitro return to his own land? 18:27 - To convert the members of his family to Judaism. 8. How did the encampment at Sinai differ from the other encampments? 19:2 - The Jewish People were united. 9. What was G-d s original plan for Matan Torah? What was the response of the Jewish People? 19:9 - G-d offered to appear to Moshe and to give the Torah through him. The Jewish People responded that they wished to hear the Torah directly from G-d. 10. How is it derived that Don t steal refers to kidnapping? 20:13 - Since it is written immediately after Don t murder and Don t commit adultery, it is derived that Don t steal refers to a crime carrying the same penalty as the first two, namely, the death penalty. Questions and Answers are courtesy of Ohr Somayach. HALACHIK QUESTION OF THE WEEK Q: Can my housekeeper heat food for my children in the microwave on Shabbat? ANSWERS The 10 Commandments. On the 6th of Sivan, thunder/lightning erupted and a cloud descended the Mountain. The trumpet was heard and Moshe brought the Jews to the Mountain s foot. The Mountain was enveloped in smoke, and Hashem summoned Moshe to its summit. Hashem Himself, declared the foundation of religious/moral conduct, the 10 Commandments Hashem speaks to the people through Moshe; Moshe begins to receive a series of laws. Moshe then drew near to the thick darkness and received a series of laws. (i.e., the prohibition against idolatry and general laws respecting the altar). MITZVAH OF THE WEEK: Birkat Kohanim: Hashem told the Kohanim to stand up and bless the Jewish people every single day. Although it seems that the Kohanim are actually blessing the Jewish people, it is really Hashem that is blessing the Jewish people; the Kohanim are just there to represent Him. A: As a rule, a non-jew may not do anything for a Jew that they may not do for themselves. Indeed, if the non-jew performed an act that is prohibited to the Jew on Shabbat, the Jew is forbidden to benefit from it. Therefore, the housekeeper should not heat food in the microwave. Please submit your question of the week on any topic to Rabbi Goldberg at reg@brsonline.org Page 3

4 SHABBAT SCHEDULE FRIDAY NIGHT Sephardic Minyan (Sephardic Beit Midrash) Candle Lighting Mincha/Kabbalat Shabbat (Rand Sanctuary) Friday Night Live: Please invite someone to this Outreach Program SHABBAT DAY 5:50 pm 5:51 pm 5:55 pm 6:00 pm Neitz Minyan (Sephardic Beit Midrash) 6:15 am Hashkama Minyan (Social Hall) 7:25 am Sephardic Minyan (Sephardic Beit Midrash) 8:30 am Ashkenazi Minyan (Rand Sanctuary) 9:00 am Shacharit:Rabbi Yaakov Drang Sermon: Rabbi Efrem Goldberg Mussaf:Danny Krasna Shtiebel Minyan (Shtiebel Beit Midrash - 2nd floor) 9:30 am Teen Minyan (Shechet Beit Midrash - 2nd floor) 9:45 am Sof Zman Kriat Shema 9:47 am Lome Family Explanatory Service (WYHS Library) 10:00 am Youth Tefillah Groups (Jacobs and Rubin Youth & Senior Center) 10:00 am Sephardic Mincha (Sephardic Beit Midrash) 5:35 pm Ashkenazi Mincha (Rand Sanctuary) 5:40 pm Sh kiah 6:10 pm Ma ariv/havdalah 6:46 pm SHABBAT LEARNING Sichot of the Lubavitcher Rebbe (Shtiebel Beit Midrash) 8:30 am Tefilla Insights (Rand Sanctuary) 8:40 am Teachings of the Ba al Shem Tov (Shtiebel Beit Midrash) 9:00 am Parshat Ha shuva with Rabbi Zvi Yehuda (Board Room) 9:15 am Advanced Gemara Chabura 15 minutes after Hashkama Minyan Junior Congregation (Berdugo Beit Midrash - Room 104 & 105) 10:00 am Youth Groups (Drop-off begins at 10:00 am) 10:00 am YOUTH GROUPS END AT THE CONCLUSION OF THE MAIN MINYAN Sephardic Roundtable (Sephardic Beit Midrash) 11:00 am Beit Midrash Program (Senders Library) 3:45 pm Rabbi s Class (Rand Sanctuary) 4:40 pm The Distinguished Decalogue: What s Special about the Ten Commandments? Rabbi Efrem Goldberg Daf Yomi between Mincha/Maariv PARSHAT MISHPATIM - FEBRUARY SHABBAT SHEKALIM Sephardic Minyan (Sephardic Beit Midrash) Candle Lighting Mincha/Kabbalat Shabbat (Rand Sanctuary) 5:55 pm 5:56 pm 6:00 pm Friday Night Live: Please invite someone to this Outreach Program 6:00 pm Maariv/Havdalah (Shabbat) 6:50 pm DAILY MINYANIM Daf Yomi (Sunday - Friday) 7:00 am Sunday (Social Hall) 6:25, 7:15, 8:00, 9:00 am Monday & Thursday (Social Hall) 6:15, 7:00 & 8:00 am Tuesday, Wednesday & Friday (Social Hall) 6:25, 7:00 & 8:00 am Monday through Friday (Senders Library) 7:45 am SEPHARDIC SHACHARIT Shacharit (Sunday - Friday) 6:20 & 8:00 am MINCHA/MA ARIV Early Mincha (Sunday) 1:00 pm Sephardic Minyan (Sunday - Thursday) (Sephardic Beit Midrash) 5:50 pm Ashkenazi Minyan (Sunday - Thursday) (Social Hall) 5:55 pm Late Maariv 9:30 pm THE WEINBAUM YESHIVA HIGH SCHOOL MINCHA SCHEDULE Monday: 3:20 - Tuesday: 3:05 - Wednesday: 4:00 - Thursday- 3:20 BRS WEST (At the Hillel Day School, th Ave. (305) ) Mincha/Kabbalat Shabbat (Note NEW time) Candle Lighting Shacharit (Shabbat) NEW - Youth Groups Mishnayot Class for Children Mincha (Shabbat) Maariv/Havdalah/Shabbat ends NEW - Sunday Morning Minyan 5:40 pm 5:51 pm 9:30 am 10:30 am 5:00 pm 5:40 pm 6:46 pm 7:45 am YAHRZEITS LIFE CYCLE WELCOME NEW MEMBERS Ira & Arlene Schwartz BIRTHDAYS Eliana Broide Jacob Katz Theo Klewansky Ariel Moshe Ken Ostroff Avi Schneider Ari Shachter David Schneider WELCOME TO THE COMMUNITY Robert & Ruth Epstein Steven & Lynne Frenkel and their sons, Andrew & Jared To all participants of Chai Lifeline Shabbaton Stanley & Judy Kaplan Leon & Rena Beylus Naomi Moskowitz Rabbi Solomon & Shirley Schiff Family & Friends here in honor of the Beylus Simcha Rabbi Shmuel Jarashow Shmuel Tzvi ben Shayna Zoli Bernstein Azriel Ha Cohen ben Ruchel Cantor Lazar Wax Eliezer ben Sara Golda Sol Feldman Shlomo Dov ben Chana Rabbi Moshe Mintz Moshe Avraham ben Chaya Abraham Katzman Abraham Yehoshua ben Chaia hacohen REFUAH SHLAYMAH For members of BRS Community. For all other Refuah Shlaymah needs, please see Tehillim Circle Helen Ijac Alta Haita bat Devorah Ruth Sherman Rochel bat Batsheva Sandy Strauss Sara Leah bat Gittel Joan Noven Rochel Tova bat Malka Beverly Kassirer Briendle bat Pessel Sara Skoczylas Sara Zlata bat Guta Irene Berger Chaya Pesa bar Soea Esther Ariella Berman Ariella Sarah bat Elisheva Malka Mr. George Saks in memory of his grandmother Esther Gluck, 17 Shevat Mr. Eric Pinkis in memory of his father Robert Pinkis, 17 Shevat Mr. Martin Wasserstrom in memory of his mother Edith Wasserstrom, 17 Shevat Mrs. Marilynne Mechanic in memory of her mother Fayge Weg, 17 Shevat Mrs. Grace Rindsberg in memory of her mother Sophie Welwart, 17 Shevat Mrs. Shani Klestzick in memory of her grandmother Sophie Welwart, 17 Shevat Mrs. Michal Schwartz In memory of her grandmother Sophie Welwart, 17 Shevat Mr. Mark Rindsberg in memory of his grandmother Sophie Welwart, 17 Shevat Mrs. Gini Raab in memory of her grandmother Sophie Welwart, 17 Shevat Mrs. Lyuba Weiss in memory of her mother Hana Bondar, 18 Shevat Rabbi Mordechai Cohen in memory of his mother Miriam Cohen, 18 Shevat Ms. Naomi Stemp in memory of her father-in-law Isaac Stempnitzky, 18 Shevat Mrs. Carolynn Jarashow in memory of her father Abe Baker, 19 Shevat Mr. George Saks in memory of his aunt Lee Gluck, 19 Shevat Rabbi Shmuel Jarashow in memory of his mother Jeanette Jarashow, 19 Shevat Dr. Aaron Kaweblum in memory of his mother Sara Kaweblum, 19 Shevat Dr. Vivienne Rosenbusch in memory of her father Michel Carno, 20 Shevat Mrs. Shirley Girnun in memory of her mother Nesta Goldblatt, 20 Shevat Mr. Matthew Hocherman in memory of his grandfather Jacob Hocherman, 20 Shevat Dr. David Wolgin in memory of his father Richard Wolgin, 20 Shevat Mr. Eli Rindsberg in memory of his mother Ruth Rindsberg, 21 Shevat Mrs. Rita Silberman in memory of her mother Edith Garey, 22 Shevat Mr. Robert Strauss in memory of his grandfather Henry Greenfield, 22 Shevat Mr. Jack Hanoka in memory of his father Morris Hanoka, 22 Shevat Rabbi David Kinberg in memory of his father Leonard Kinberg, 22 Shevat Mr. Yaakov Kronfeld in memory of his father Theodore Kronfeld, 22 Shevat Mr. Zoltan Bernstein in memory of his mother Rose Bernstein, 23 Shevat Mrs. Jean Cohen in memory of her mother Rachel Flechner, 23 Shevat Mr. Matthew Hocherman in memory of his father Henry Hocherman, 23 Shevat Mr. Robert Marx in memory of his mother Julia Marx, 23 Shevat Mrs. Stacia Konstam in memory of her mother Fannie Shapiro, 23 Shevat Dr. Issy Bruk in memory of his mother Taiba Bruk, 24 Shevat Mrs. Estelle Bari in memory of her mother Bessie Geffen, 24 Shevat Mrs. Molly Small in memory of her mother Kayla Kranz, 24 Shevat Mrs. Rita Rubin in memory of her brother Chaim Kupietzky, 24 Shevat Page 4

5 SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENTS MAZAL TOV Benjamin & Elizabeth Berman on the birth of their daughter, Ariella Sarah. Rabbi Ovi & Michal Jacobs on the birth of their son. Neal Beylus and Deborah Beylus on their son, Owen, becoming a Bar Mitzvah, AND to his proud siblings, Chloe and Alec. AND grandparents, Stanley & Judy Kaplan and Leon & Rena Beylus. AND great grandmother, Naomi Moskowitz. Rabbi Chaim & Deena Shulman on the birth of a grandson, Yeshaya Shimon. Proud parents are Mark & Naomi Calev of Miami Beach, FL. Barbara Frenkel on her special Birthday. Harry Wanderer on his special Birthday KIDDUSH Hashkama Minyan Kiddush sponsored by The Hashkama Minyan Kiddush Fund Sephardic Minyan Kiddush Sponsored by the Revach family for a Refuah Shlaumah for Solomon Revach. Seudah Shlishiet co-sponsored by Chai Lifeline, Allen & Shirley Girnun, Matthew & Tova Hocherman, Rabbi Shmuel & Carolynn Jarashow, Yaakov Kronfeld, Sam & Rita Rubin, George & Stephanie Saks, David & Maxine Wolgin, Guest Speaker: Rabbi Sruli Fried, MSW Chai Lifeline Director of Programs and Services / New Jersey SHALOM BAYIT SERIES FOR MEN WITH RABBI EFREM GOLDBERG This Wednesday Night, February 15 at 8:30 pm at the Goldberg home, Hollyhock Trail in Thornhill Green- Victor s Secret: A Perspective for Men on Marriage and Intimacy NIGHTTIME CLASS WITH RABBI MOSKOWITZ Rabbi Moskowitz s Jet Jew Part Deux Series on Thursday nights in February, 8:00 pm 9:00 pm February 16 - Why and How Do We Tear Clothes at the Kotel February 23 - Keeping 2nd Day of Yom Tov in Israel CONSCIOUS EATING AS A MITZVAH This Thursday Evening, February 16 at 8:00 pm REBBETZIN CHANA BRACHA SIEGELBAUM Author, Healer, and Director of Midreshet B erot Bat Ayin: Holistic Torah Women and the Land. Most people are not aware of the importance of serving Hashem through eating. Learn practical tools of how to eat in holiness, in order to rectify compulsive eating and help bring about the geulah (redemption). Hosted by Dr. Orah Moshe, 7890 Palacio Del Mar, Boca Raton, FL TAHARAT HAMISHPACHA CLASS FOR WOMEN WITH REBBETZIN GOLDBERG Beginner classes with Rebbetzin Yocheved Goldberg. For women who have never had a formal class on the Mitzvah of Taharat Hamishpacha and would like to learn all the details and beauty behind the Mikvah. Tuesdays, February 21 & 28 at 8:30 pm at the Goldberg s home, Hollyhock Trail in Thornhill Green. FIRST ANNUAL BRS DIGITAL SHORTS PURIM COMPETITION This Purim, BRS will be holding a video competition. BRS invites you to create your own funny, clever, cute, entertaining, or original video. For more information, please see the flyers in the lobby or on our website at brsonline. org. IF YOU KNOW SOMETHING, SAY SOMETHING If you are aware of someone who is ill or home bound, even if you think we are aware, please let the BRS Rabbinate know. We constantly strive to ensure that everyone is cared for and need your help. THE MUSLIM BROTHERHOOD AND ARAB SPRINGS The Threat to America and Israel. The Social Action Committee brings you a seminar presented by EJ Kimball. Sunday evening, February 19 at 7:30-9:00 pm at BRS. For questions please brs.social.action.committee@gmail.com THIS WEEK S LUNCH AND LEARN Special guest speaker: Dr. Rene H. Levy - Baseless Hatred This Wednesday 12:15-1:15 pm in the Social Hall. THE HISTORY OF TREBLINKA THIS SUNDAY Special Program sponsored by the K.A.D.I.S.H. Committee Dr. Michael Berenbaum, will speak on TREBLINKA: THE DOCUMENTARY. Sunday, February 12, at 7:00 pm in the BRS Social Hall. Dr. Berenbaum is the Executive Editor of the New Encyclopedia Judaica, writer, lecturer, and teacher consulting in the conceptual development of museums and the development of historical films. SUNRISE MINYAN AT THE BEACH Next Friday, February 17 at 6:35 am - Men & Women welcome. Watch the sun rise over the ocean as you connect with God through prayer and inspiration. Meet at the Palmetto Park Gazebo for a special inspirational Minyan. Please call the Shul office (561) to confirm your attendance YOO-HOO, MRS. GOLDBERG Next Saturday night, February 18, at 8:30 pm, only $5.00. As part of the BRS film series, showing a humorous and eye-opening story of television pioneer Gertrude Berg. She was the creator, principal writer, and star of The Goldbergs, a popular radio show for 17 years, which became television s very first character-driven domestic sitcom in Berg received the first Best Actress Emmy in history, and paved the way for women in the entertainment industry. PURIM CARNIVAL We are hard at work to create an amazing carnival and fun filled day! Join us on Sunday, February 26 from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm for carnival games, bbq, amazing interactive games, and of course good Purim fun! Sponsorships available at $180, which includes fast pass through admission, bands for all of your children (immediate family only), 2 t-shirts, 2 steaks, 5 hot dogs, 5 hamburgers, 5 fries, 5 drinks, 5 snow cones, 5 popcorns. For more information, please contact Aliza at the Shul office or at (561) Purim Carnival chairs: Simone Broide, Lisa Houben, Dena Lurie, Tammy Pickholtz, Rachel Rudensky BLOOD DRIVE AT BRS Sunday, February 26 at 11:00 am to 4:00 pm. All blood donors will receive a free mini physical, iron and, cholesterol screening plus great givaways. Valid ID required. For more information, please contact Marissa at (561) SEMINAR IN MODERN ISRAELI HISTORY 6 AMAZING DAYS! Starting Monday, February 27. See the back of this Weekly for the details. PURIM IS A MONTH AWAY!!! Purim Cards, in lieu of Mishloach Manot, are available in Linda s office. Cost is 10 for $18.00 proceeds to benefit Tomchei Shabbat. Page 5

6 ADULT EDUCATION CLASS UPDATES SICHOT OF THE LUBAVITCHER REBBE is given every Shabbat morning at 8:30 am by Rabbi Samuel Levine in the Shtiebel Beit Midrash. TEACHINGS OF THE BA AL SHEM TOV Every Shabbat in the Shtiebel Beit Midrash, given by Bentzion Meltzer at 9:00 am. ZUMBA CLASS for women will take place this Monday & Wednesday. For more information, please call (561) RABBI MOSKOWITZ S class, 8:15-9:15 am, at Hillel Day School will take place this week on Thursday morning. MAKE TIME FOR LEARNING Every Wednesday evening 8:00-9:30 pm, for Beit Midrash learning. To find a Chavruta, please contact Rabbi Dr. Brian Galbut. RABBI MOSKOWITZ S Contemporary Halacha class - Bribing God and Birchat Hamazon and will take place on Wednesday, February 15 at 10:15 am and on Thursday, February 16 at 8:30 am. RABBANIT AVIGAIL ROCK weekly classes will be on Thursday morning, 9:30-10:30 am in the Board Room. Registration can be done in the Shul office or myspenny613@aol.com. PARSHAT HA SHAVUA Rabbi Efrem Goldberg s class will continue on Wednesday at 11:00 am in the Social Hall. RABBI ZVI YEHUDA weekly Parshat Ha shavua class will take place this Shabbat at 9:15 am in the Board Room. DAF YOMI class with Rabbi Ben Sugerman can be listened to any time of the day by visiting MISHNA BERURA YOMI Every day, 15 minutes prior to Mincha, there will be a brief class studying that day s portion of the Mishna Berura. ADULT EDUCATION SCHOLAR-IN-RESIDENCE NEXT SHABBAT Professor Yisrael Aumann, Nobel Prize Winner in Economics, Member of the Advisory Board, the Jewish Statesmanship Center. Shabbat morning sermon To Run With the Herd--Or Not? Shabbat afternoon (the Rabbi s Class) Why Are We in Israel? A Game Theory Perspective Seudah Shlishit - Q and A with Professor Aumann Robert Yisrael Aumann was born in Frankfurt am Main, Germany, in 1930, fled Nazi persecution, and emigrated to the United States with his family in Professor Aumann attended Yeshiva elementary and high schools, got a bachelor s degree from the City College of New York in 1950, and a Ph.D. in mathematics from MIT in He joined the mathematics department at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem in 1956, and has been there ever since. In 1990, he was among the founders of the Center for Rationality at the Hebrew University, an interdisciplinary research center, centered on Game Theory. Professor Aumann is the author of over ninety scientific papers and six books, and has received numerous prizes, including the Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences for NEW SERIES: AROUND THE WORLD IN JEWISH HISTORY WITH KOSHER WINES BRS is excited to launch two exciting classes exploring the richness of Jewish life around the globe. Each class will feature a lecture examining the major events and personalities that took place in that location together with a sampling of Kosher wines from that region. Wednesday, February 22 The Jews of Spain Rabbi Efrem Goldberg NEW DATE!! Wednesday, March 14 The Jews of Italy Rabbi Philip Moskowitz Classes will take place in the BRS Social Hall at 8:00 pm and are open to both men and women WEDNESDAY LINE-UP THIS WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 15 9:15 10:15 am in the Board Room Malka Morris - In-depth study of Sefer Yehoshua 10:15 11:00 am in the Social Hall Rabbi Philip Moskowitz - Bribing God and Birchat Hamazon 11:00 am 12:00 pm in the Social Hall Rabbi Efrem Goldberg - Parshat Ha Shavua It is a text-based study on the Parsha of the week. Please bring a Mikra ot Gedolot. Every week, an MP3 of the class will be available on our website, DISTINGUISHED SCHOLARS LUNCH & LEARN SERIES 12:15-1:15 pm in the Social Hall February 15 Dr. Rene H. Levy, University of Washington Baseless Hatred UPCOMING LECTURES February 22 Rabbi Fred Klein, Greater Miami Jewish Federation Why Are There So Many Jewish Doctors? February 29 - Season Finale Dr. Alan Berger, Florida Atlantic University Elie Wiesel s Quarrel with God TANACH B SHANA 2.0 UPCOMING CLASSES Tuesday, February 14, Shir HaShirim Mrs. Amy Horowitz, Weinbaum Yeshiva High School Tuesday, February 21, Tehillim Rabbi Efrem Goldberg Page 6

7 SUPER SUNDAY AT BRS BRS OUTREACH REVOLUTION FRIDAY NIGHT LIVE AT 6PM What a morning of GROWTH!! We got our hands dirty this week when we learned about Tu B Shvat at BRS! We are growing grassheads in our garden that are all around Boca Raton. Afterwards, we grew spiritually as we made flowers and cards to be distributed to families in need through JFS. Friday Night Live begins at 6:00 pm and lasts 45 minutes. Each session includes a story, an inspirational message, singing, personal prayers, a Kiddush, and social time. EXPLANATORY EXPERIENCE AT 10AM Challah baking Yasher Koach to all of the women that joined us last Sunday to participate in a Challah baking experience. We donated many challot to families in need in Boca Raton through the Jewish Family Service. Thank you to our coordinators Shira Englander and Gila Stern and our bakers, who taught many new techniques to the participants. Rav Schachter What a Zechut we had to hear from one of the poskei hador. If you missed the Shiurim in person, make sure to check out to listen. Super Bowl Thanks to Warren & Robin Struhl for sponsoring an amazing Super Bowl party. All attendees enjoyed the pizza, prizes, and of course the Super Bowl. COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS GIFT OF LIFE BONE MARROW FOUNDATION S 2ND ANNUAL WALK FOR LIFE This Sunday, February 12, Gift of Life will host its 2nd Annual Walk for Life on FAU s campus in Boca Raton. Gift of Life facilitates bone marrow, blood stem cell, and cord blood transplants for children and adults suffering from life-threatening illnesses. Since tissue-type is inherited, a patient s best chance of finding a genetic match lies with donors of similar ethnicity. Gift of Life strives to increase the representation of Jewish donors in the registry in order to overcome the devastating effects of the Holocaust, which severed bloodlines. The event raises awareness in our community, and will kick off with the introduction of a transplant recipient to their heroic donor for the first time. It is a family friendly event with activities for children, entertainment, food, and a chance drawing. More information and registration is available online at www. giftolife.org/walk4life. Page 7

8 SISTERHOOD - PURIM 2012 IS ALMOST HERE! Sisterhood s annual Mishloach Manot fundraiser is up and running! We would love to have 100% participation! Check your inbox and soon after your mailbox; all of the exciting details are inside. Help support our community with this important Mitzvah! SHOMREI OLAM By improving building codes and designs, we can realize huge energy savings. Estimates range but average 50% reductions in overall energy use if designed efficiently. Support requirements that target building Energy Efficient Buildings. For details on the energy savings by designing green structures ( asp). For more info on Shomrei Olam, contact Dr. Orah Moshe at rein@ scientist.com. EMPTY NESTERS Friday, February 17 dinner - $30 per person. Your payment needs to be made to the Shul by February 14. Special Guest appearance: Professor Robert Yisrael Aumann. Save the Date Thursday, March 8 at 4:30 pm with Mincha at 4:15 pm Purim Seudah. Cost is $30 pp. For more information, please contact Sylvia Broide (561) MEN S CLUB PAINT BALL Sunday, February 19 at 9:00 am at Hot Shots Paintball, Southern Blvd, Loxahatachee, FL Includes Full Paintball Gear & Refreshments. All adults and children (over 12) are welcome. Under 18 must be accompanied by their parent. Cost $30. Reservation can be made at brspaintball@gmail.com. BIKUR CHOLIM Bikur Cholim of South Palm Beach County is proud to announce that the new Shabbat room and hospitality suite at Boca Raton Regional Hospital has gotten rave reviews. For more information, contact Stan at (561) SOCIAL ACTION According to reputable sources including The Israel Project, an Iranian news agency associated with a respected conservative member of Iran s parliament is calling for an Iranian attack on Israel in order to destroy the Jewish state. Israeli facilities in the U.S. and worldwide are also on alert according to an internal security document obtained by ABC News. EJ Kimball of the Strategic Engagement Group will address such threats to America and Israel when he speaks at BRS at 7:30 pm Sunday evening, February 19. Mr. Kimball s is former Foreign Policy Counsel to US Congresswoman Sue Myrick (NC). He created the bipartisan Congressional Anti-Terrorism Caucus and was Managing Director of the research department of The Investigative Project on Terrorism. Everyone is encouraged to attend. MUSICAL CHEVRA The musical Chevra meets monthly to listen and enjoy classical and popular music. For details, please contact Moshe Leib or Ruth Stuart at Ruthandmlstuart@gmail.com CHEVRA KADISHA SEMINAR POSTPONED The Chevra Kadisha Seminar scheduled for Monday, February 13, has been postponed. It will be rescheduled in March and the new date will be announced as soon as it is put in place. If you are interested in being involved with the Chevra, please contact Yvette Kawblum at (561) or ykaweblum@ aol.com. BRS AUXILIARIES, ETC. ISRAEL DEFENSE FORCES (IDF) YOUNG BUSINESS PROFESSIONALS Our First Young Business Professionals Event of 2012 will take place Monday February 20 at 8:00 pm. Once again, we will be meeting at Asia (anyone interested in sponsoring appetizers please let me know - it s around $40-50 for a small spread and drinks for the table). Our guest speaker will be Glen Golish. He will talk about his personal story of starting the Golish Financial Group. For more information and registration, please contact Gil Stein at Gil@Herculesroofing.com. A person s success in life can usually be measured by the number of uncomfortable conversations they are willing to have. - Tim Ferriss MAIMONIDES SOCIETY The Caring Doctors Project aims to pair medically uninsured people of South Palm Beach County with doctors who have agreed to care for them free of charge. Created by Jewish Family Services and sponsored by Project Access of the Palm Beach County Medical Society and the BRS Maimonides Society, it offers participating doctors sovereign immunity for their work. WOMEN S MIKVAH The hours for the Women s Mikvah are Sunday through Thursday, 7:30 pm to 10:00 pm (last appointment is at 9:00 pm). For Friday and Yom Tov appointments, please call three days in advance. On Saturday and Fast Days, open an hour after Havadalah, for only 1 hour thereafter. In order to better assist you every day, appointments are strongly advised. Please call (561) BOCA RATON COMMUNITY ERUV The Boca Raton Community Eruv is in need of funds. It is now possible to sponsor the Eruv for a particular Shabbat for $360. Donations can now also be made through our website or please contact Chani Salamon at (561) for more information. Please help, as we ALL benefit from the Eruv. The Eruv is something we all rely on and often take for granted. If you have not yet contributed, please consider doing so in order to ensure that the Eruv can be checked and maintained. regularly. The Eruv is generously sponsored this week by Mr. & Mrs. Toby Feinerman on the occasion of his father s Yarzheit on the 18th of Shevat. BIRTHDAY MA ASER PROGRAM Teach your children true Chesed by encouraging them to participate in an amazing program called Birthday Ma'aser. When your child has a birthday party, he/she can choose one or more presents that he/she wishes to donate to a needy child. On each scheduled Shabbat, Rabbi Goldberg will be calling up to the Bima the children who participated in this program and they will receive a special certificate for doing this huge Mitzvah. All gifts that are collected will be donated to JAFCO (Jewish Adoption and Foster Care Options). For any questions or drop-offs, please contact Leah Gildin (917) or drop-offs are welcome at the Shul office. CHESED The Boca Raton Simcha Gemach is up and running. Please contact us if you are making a Simcha and are in need of centerpieces or vases, etc. for your Simcha. Also, we welcome any gently used or new table centerpieces, tablecloths, etc. that could be contributed to this worthy cause. We would like to be able to provide all members of our community with the accessories to make their Simchas elegant and special. All proceeds from this Gemach will be donated to Tzedakah. Please contact, Baila Kaplan at (917) or Michal Marcus at (917) Please have in mind children and grandchildren of members of our community currently serving in the IDF: Amiel Abir, Julian Gordon, Ben Weiss, Timna Krasna, Asher Kaplan, Brandon Gelbart, Orelia Elkaim, Menachem Kaplan, Jeremy Siegman, Noam Ivri (Makover), Evan Pelz, Charlie Pollack, Yakov Simcha Ben Moshe Yisroel and Mordechai Wolfson. 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 MAJDI HALABI Page 8

9 BRS TEENS AMAZING TEEN ISRAEL ADVOCACY SHABBATON BLOWS AWAY BRS This past Shabbat, BRS partnered with AIPAC, NCSY, and three local schools to host the first ever South Florida Teen Israel Advocacy Shabbaton. Over 75 teens participated in sessions given by Rabbi Pilichowski and AIPAC s Director of Early Engagement Eric Gallagher on Gaza, the Palestinians, and the efforts to stop Iran s nuclear aspirations. The highlight was a Question and Answer session with Jeremy Horelick, AIPAC s Florida Deputy Director. Over 60 teens stayed until 11:00 pm to hear Jeremy give an insider s view on events effecting America and Israel s relationship. The teens were especially appreciative of a panel discussion that included BRS s AIPAC lay leaders. Joseph Bensmihen, David Kay, and Ben and Cara Freedman told our teens how they help strengthen the U.S.-Israel relationship, and inspired them to get involved as well. Many participants, parents, and teachers wrote in about their experiences on the Shabbaton. Here are a few of their comments. Thank you for including [our son[ in last Shabbat s program- it brought him up to a whole new level of consciousness and understanding of Israel. Yasher Ko ach! a grateful parent This weekend was great for BRS and for AIPAC, of course, but I think most importantly for the teens. [We] were commenting how incredible it is that these types of opportunities (the Shabbaton, the participation in the Rabbi Gordis event, and the Kristol / Begala event to name a few of the most recent) of extracurricular learning activities available to them. This part of their education is perhaps more important than the curriculum they learn in school. an impressed congregant Thank you so much for this past Shabbat. It was an amazing weekend, and I enjoyed it very much. I m looking forward to being back in Boca many times and hopefully really soon. a teen who came from out of state for the Shabbaton I would just like to thank you for the incredible Israel Advocacy Shabbaton. I really did enjoy it and I could only hope my peers benefited as much as I did. I look forward to our future encounters. a local teen on his first Israel Advocacy Experience Rabbi, I would just like to thank you for the very informative Shabbaton this past weekend. It has actually greatly helped me out here at Model U.N. so thanks! an inspired teen Very fun and inspiring weekend. Thanks for inviting me. An educated teen TWO NEW TEEN OPPORTUNITIES BEGIN THIS WEEK AT BRS Two new exciting opportunities started this week at BRS, and boy are they exciting. The first is an extension of BRS s Pro-Israel teen chapter and the second is a Torah learning opportunity. Please take advantage of these new programs. Pro-Israel Teen Meeting now on Wednesday nights too! For those teens that can t make the weekly Friday meetings, a second class has opened on Wednesday nights at 8:00 pm. Serious Torah for Serious Boys. Every Shabbat afternoon, 45 minutes before Mincha in the Berdugo Beit Midrash. All high school boys interested in studying Torah are invited. BRS YOUTH NEW KIDS HASHKAMA CHABURA Rabbi Gershon Eisenberger, Boca s new star Rebbe, will be starting a post Hashkama Minyan Chabura for boys. We will be learning Masechet Megila in preparation for Purim! The Chabura will begin this week at about 9:30 am in Room 102 in the Jacobs and Rubin Youth and Senior Center. Make sure to come on time for the special kids Kiddush! GEMARA FOR BEGINNERS WITH RABBI YAAKOV DRANG Rabbi Yaakov Drang will be giving a Shiur for beginners in Gemara Brachot between Mincha and Maariv on Shabbat afternoon for boys in grades 5-7. JUNIOR CONGREGATION Make sure to come on time this week to Junior Congregation (JuCo)! JuCo begins every Shabbat morning at 10:00 am. Get ready for amazing Davening, Parsha, guest speakers, games, talent, and of course great prizes. SHABBAT AFTERNOON LEARNING LINE-UP Looking forward to joining you this Shabbat afternoon at 4:40 pm. Join us for interactive Pirkei Avot games and source learning with the Bnot Sheirut and the Pilichowskis. ADOPT A BUBBIE & ZADIE We are looking to pair up some Ba alei Chesed middle school children with some of the master (senior) members of our community. If you are interested in volunteering, please be in touch with Shira Levitt, Netanya Meyerowitz, Avigayil Pilichowski, Yaakov Kaskel, or Jason Mizrahi at brschesed@gmail.com. PURIM CARNIVAL IS COMING!! We are hard at work to create an amazing carnival and fun filled day! Join us on Sunday, February 26 from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm for carnival games, bbq, amazing interactive games, and of course good Purim fun! Sponsorships available at $180 which includes priceless fast pass through admission, bands for all of your children (immediate family only), 2 t-shirts, 2 steaks, 5 hot dogs, 5 hamburgers, 5 fries, 5 drinks, 5 snow cones, 5 popcorns. For more information, please contact Aliza at the Shul office or at (561) Purim Carnival chairs: Simone Broide, Lisa Houben, Dena Lurie, Tammy Pickholtz, Rachel Rudensky Page 9

10 ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT MONDAY, MARCH 19 BOCA RATON RESORT & CLUB BOCA CLUB BLVD BOCA RATON, FL Michael Selig has returned from Israel Superior Care Physical Therapy is now open for the Winter season (November April). Michael is accepting all Medicare Patients for: *Balance Training & Fall Prevention * Gait Training *Strengthening & Conditioning * Post-operative Rehabilitation *Treatment of Back, Neck, Shoulder, Ankle, Knee Pain & Injury Call Superior Care Physical Therapy, Inc for an appointment. KING DAVID CATERING Brisim Bar Mitzvahs Weddings Dinners Any Simcha Any Occasion KING DAVID HALL AT TEMPLE BETH ISRAEL 201 S. Military Trail Deerfield Beach, FL * Age Management Medicine * HCG Weight Loss Program * Bio-Identical Hormones Merna Matilsky, MD Matilsky and Morris Medical Associates 2900 N. Military Trail, Suite 245 Boca Raton, FL Ph: Fax: Registration/ light lunch at 11:00 am Shotgun at 12:30 pm Golf/Dinner - $180. Many sponsorship opportunities available, for more information, please call Matthew Hocherman at (561) or via at mjh@brsonline.org PRESENTING SPONSOR - $10,000 Company Name incorporated into the name of the event Eight Reservations for Golf AWARD DINNER SPONSOR - $5,000 Six Reservations for Golf CONTESTS/OTHER SPONSORSHIPS Two Reservations for Golf Hole in One - $1,800 Closest to the Pin - $1,800 Longest Drive - $1,800 HAT SPONSOR - KOSHER MARKETPLACE Putting Contest - $1,800 Four Reservations for Golf TEE SPONSOR (18) - $1,250 One Reservation for Golf BAG SPONSOR - $3,600 Lynn Hahn Four Reservations for Golf Daniel & Caroline Katz MDPrevent Preventive Medicine BEVERAGE CART SPONSOR - $2,500 Two Reservations for Golf on Beverage Cart TOWEL SPONSOR - $2,500 Two Reservations for Golf on Towel Cart LUNCH SPONSOR $2,500 Two Reservations for Golf Oil Change & Tire Rotation. Any 2 Flushes Brake, Coolant or Power Steering Call Hank or Jacob at GOLF BALL SPONSOR $2,500 Two Reservations for Golf GOLF SHIRT SPONSOR - $3,600 Four Reservations for Golf $14.95 $99.95 CIGAR SPONSOR $2,500 Two Reservations for Golf NOW OPEN! PICK UP & DELIVERY AVAILABLE OVER 30 YEAR OF EXP. and Learning Centers Stanley & Ana Haar Bernie & Melanie Kaminetsky MDPrevent Preventive Medicine and Learning Centers Martin & Ileana Flics Daniel & Liora Adler BRS Men s Club & Sisterhood National Risk Experts Shabbat Morning Haftorah Group Stern Zwelling LLC Butters Construction

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12 SEMINAR IN MODERN ISRAELI HISTORY 6 AMAZING DAYS! Monday, February 27 Shabbat, March 3 at BRS in the Social Hall With Moshe Ben Baruch. Each class will be given both in the morning and evening, and each class will be preceded by a short film series. Registration This course is FREE!! To register for this incredible opportunity or to find out more information, please contact Aliza at or aliza@brsonline.org. Course Highlights Join this intensive, one week seminar that will review the history of modern Israel from the inception of Zionism to the present. We will study the ideological formations and Zionist nation-building (to 1949), the problems and successes of sovereignty (to 1979), and the quest for identity and normalization (to the present). This unique seminar is geared to both those with a deep understanding of Israeli history and those just beginning their learning. 9:00am 9:30am 12:00 1:00 pm 7:30pm 8:00pm 8:30pm Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Shabbat Film Series: Creation of a State Film Series: Crossing the Line Film Series: Israel in the Media Film Series: Israel and the West: Shared Values The Decisive Battle Over Ben Gurion is Not Just an Palmach: Its Creation, Its The Fascinating History of the Old City of Jerusalem in Airport: Leadership in Crisis Role and Its Politics Gamla 1967 Film Series: Speak up for Israel The City of Tzfat and The War of 1948 Film Series: Speak up for Israel The City of Tzfat and The War of 1948 The Biblical and Modern Borders of Israel Film Series: Creation of a State Film Series: Crossing the Line Ben Gurion is Not Just an Palmach: Its Creation, Its Airport: Leadership in Crisis Role and Its Politics Moshe Ben Baruch lives in Israel and has worked for many years as an educator both in Israel and abroad. He holds a B.A in Bible and History and a Masters degree in Israel Studies from Bar-Ilan University. He has served as a paratrooper and captain in the Israel Defense Forces and gives entertaining, engaging, and inspirational tours of Israel. Moshe most recently served as the tour guide for a trip that Rabbi Goldberg led. Moshe s love of Israel, his expansive knowledge of Israeli history and geography (and so many other subjects), and his excellent presentation style virtually guarantee classes that you do not want to miss! Steven Lenoff Film Series: Israel in the Media The Fascinating History of Gamla Imagine a living, breathing, encyclopedia of modern, medieval, and ancient Jewish History, not to mention most anything else. His depth of knowledge: mindblowing; his delivery: theatrical. Dr. David Kay Spending time with Moshe was like re-living history. His passion is infectious and his knowledge incomparable. Sal Abady Sponsored in loving memory of Joseph Silverman *All Films are courtesy of Jerusalemonlineu.com The Decisive Battle Over the Old City of Jerusalem in 1967 Film Series: Israel Inside