Pesach Newsletter 2008 SR.pub - The Jewish Center

A Message from Youth DirectorDalia GefenYouth DepartmentJanuary through March were busy months for The Jewish CenterYouth Department. Children from three West Side shuls in 4 th gradeand up got to play basketball and dodgeball at Gym Night followedby pizza. Children in grades K-5 enjoyed designing their own jewelryand painting plaster pieces at the Little Shop of Crafts.In February, the Youth Department hosted the charity organizationSoaringwords and participated in a special chesed project. Childrenand adults decorated quilts and pillows that were donated tosick children at a local medical center. We also hosted Bubblemania-“comedy with a drip.” Our children watched in delight asunique bubbles were blown, some even from shoes and hats, andwere amazed when a member of our audience was actually encasedinto a huge bubble! We celebrated January and Februarybirthdays with a special Youth Birthday Kiddush following Shabbatmorning groups.In March, our children enjoyed Movie Night, followed by pizza andPurim card-decorating for soldiers in Israel. Our annual Family IcecreamMegillah Reading and Greatest Purim Carnival Ever are alwaysa hit. And on March 22, children will get to participate in themain Shabbat service and deliver divrei Torah at our annual YouthShabbat with Chazzan Benny.Our thriving youth department has a lot more in store for you andyour families in the upcoming months. Join us for a “Chocolate Seder”in April with other neighboring shuls. Our next Youth BirthdayKiddush will take place on April 5 th when we will celebrate Marchand April birthdays. On May 3 rd we will celebrate May and Junebirthdays. To participate in one of our kiddushes and to help sponsorevents, contact sharongreengrass@yahoo.com. Also, staytuned for a fun trip to Great Adventure with other Upper West Sidepre-teens and teens. As always, The Jewish Center Youth Departmentstrives to offer the best services and programs on the WestSide. If you have any questions or comments please email me atdalia@jewishcenter.org. SisterhoodSpring- the birds are singing and the synagogue’s Sisterhood’s thoughts turn to nature beginning to bloom. What betterway to celebrate the season than with music and flowers? On March 8 th , 60 Jewish Center members spent “Some EnchantedEvening” at the Broadway production of “South Pacific,” followed by dessert at the home of Selig and AngelaSacks. Looking forward, on March 25 th , with the smell of lilacs in the air, the Sisterhood will provide 35 members withthe opportunity to work with florist, Shula Wiener (Flowers By Special Arrangement) on a unique centerpiece. Our springseason will conclude with a brunch on May 18 th at the home of Sharon Haberman, featuring Lauri Grossman, DC whowill present holistic approaches to treating anxiety and depression. We are excited to announce that we will be offeringJewish Center members the opportunity to purchase Rosh Hashanah gift packages again this fall to give one another.Please remember to pay your Sisterhood dues; proceeds from our dues and our various programs go directly to thesynagogue. We are always grateful to those who make contributions to the Sisterhood, as it helps to defray the cost ofproviding Shabbat meals to Jewish Center families during shivah. Page 5

Message from jc social workerSocial Work UpdateBy Rivi Katz, LMSWNow that I have been atThe Jewish Center for anumber of months, I would like to updateall of you on what I have been doingand describe in greater detail what Ican offer.As part of the Jewish Connections Programof the Jewish Board of Family andChildren's Services, I am here at TheJewish Center on Tuesdays and Thursdaysfrom 10:00AM to 5:00PM. Mymission is to enhance the social andemotional well being of our membershipand to work together for the benefit ofThe JC community.Circumstance & Conversation=ConnectionsBy Jesse SalsbergThis past year, my usual “shul partner,”Hanno Mott, went to Israel for Shavuot.His seat, next to mine, was vacant.Aaron Weitz, who reads the Torah forthe holidays (wonderfully I might add)sat down next to me to say hello. Heshowed me a business card he had,handed to him by a gentleman who hadan aliyah. The card read, RicardoPacifici, Vice President of the JewishCommunity of Rome. I recognized thefamily name, Pacifici.During the war years my wife Fran wassheltered in a monastery outside ofFlorence with her five brothers. Her oldestbrother, Alter’s, best friend at themonastery was Emanuel Pacifici, theson of the Rabbi from Genoa. And yes,Ricardo is his son!The “friends” were reconnected someten years ago. Alter was in his shul inBrooklyn for Rosh Hashanah. He arrivedearly and was very pensive. His“shul partner” asked him why he was sodeep in thought. Alter relayed the storyof how the family, on the run from theI am available for personal consultationsincluding both crisis interventionand ongoing counseling around normallife transitions such as parenting, relationships,caregiving, aging, illness andloss, to name a few. I would also like toestablish support groups for those whowant to share common experiencesaround these issues. I can also provideinformation on or referral to humanservices in the New York area.Among my goals are educational andpractical workshops on a variety of lifecycle issues. I am in the midst of developingan exciting curriculum for a seriesof workshops on long term and end oflife planning. I would also like to workwith you to further the development ofThe JC community into one of mutualsupport for every member through bikkurcholim, hospitality, visiting thehomebound and any other needs thatyou would like to see addressed.So far, I have been privileged to be ableto help JC members in a number ofways. I assisted a number of peopleMembers’ storiesNazis, left Belgium, went to Franceand eventually wound up in Florence.At the synagogue, their father foundRabbi Cassuto, the Chief Rabbi ofFlorence, who managed to get his fivesons into the monastery with theirbaby sister Francine (and yes, that’swhy her nickname is Frankie), and hisother three girls into a convent in Florence.Alter’s “shul partner” said hiscousin was married to a Cassuto whowas a vice mayor in Jerusalem. Afterthe holiday, calls were made and theJerusalemite called Alter. He hadnever known his father, the Rabbi,and was so touched to hear how hewas involved in saving this family ofeleven. Through this connection, Alterconnected with his childhood buddyand they had a reunion in Italy at themonastery and at Ricardo Pacifici’shome!Outside the Florence monastery whereFran was sheltered during the Holocaust.who were seeking help with caring for adisabled parent or spouse. I visited anelderly member on a weekly basis providingsupport during her husband'sillness and following his death. Iworked with the Bikkur Cholim committeeto arrange visiting to one of our congregantswho was in a rehabilitationcenter for an extended period of timeand helped his family to arrange appropriatesupport for him when theybrought him home.I would love to hear your thoughts andsuggestions. You can reach me at 212-724-2700 x117 or by e-mail atrkatz@jewishcenter.org. Please feelfree to call me or to stop by to introduceyourself. I am looking forward to gettingto know you and working together forthe mutual benefit of everyone in TheJC community. One of the pictures from Alter’s visitto Florence is with a group of nunsfrom the monastery. One of themwho was a novitiate during the waryears had her arm blown off when astray German bomb hit the monastery.She lost her arm saving a Jewishchild- Emanuel Pacifici! Ricardohad never heard that Sister Martahad lost her arm saving his father.The story continues (I’ll make itbrief). Ricardo was in New York forthe premiere of an Italian moviemade for RAI (the Italian version ofPBS). He invited Fran’s entire familyto the premiere. Interestingly enoughthere were a number of JC membersat the showing. Rabbi Benjamin andElaine Blech, who had previouslymet Ricardo Pacifici when he went tothe Vatican for his special trip; Joyceand Aaron Weitz as well Barbara andGuy Riess, Fran and I and severalothers. There were many dignitariesfrom the Italian government and majorJewish organizations and synagoguesand a good time was had byall. So… talk to your neighbors andfriends from The JC- you’ll be surprisedat our connections! Page 6

Jewish Center Mission Returns from IsraelBy Esther HollanderThe Jewish Center Mission to Israel in February brought together a close-knitgroup braving torrential downpours, flight changes and some really bad coldsto see another side of Israel.Our visit with Rabbi Yona Metzger, Ashkenazic Chief Rabbi of Israel, affordedus a behind-the-scenes look at shemitah, heter mechirah and the decisionbehind what to do with shuls left in Gaza. Rabbi Metzger also recounted hisexperiences with Christian leadership regarding turning a church back into ashul in Slovenia – a place whose leaders think of him highly enough to givehim his own postage stamp.Following our visit to Rabbi Metzger, we visited the lesser known Kotel HaKatanand met with the Chief Rabbi of the Kotel. There we learned about hisgoal to bring as many soldiers and students as possible to the Kotel to teachthem about their past.After leaving the Kotel, we headed to Sderot for several meaningful hours withsome of those affected daily by the falling Kassam rockets. We learned oftheir hopes for additional aid from the government, as well as a time whenchildren will be able to play outside without fear that they are not closeenough to a shelter should the rocket siren blare.We left Sderot and traveled through the rain to visit Rabbi Berman and hisfamily in Neve Daniel. Living up amongst the clouds is certainly an interestingexperience, though we wonder if you can ever really see that view we’veheard so much about. After returning to Jerusalem, we headed out for an intimatedinner at Café Rimon.On Friday we left early to daven Shacharit at Ma’arat Hamachpelah, with aninteresting rundown of the history of Chevron by our trusty guide. After ameaningful tefilah, we headed into Chevron with Rabbi Simcha Hochbaum,who led us on a spiritual tour of several ancient and modern historical sites.We boarded the bus a little more knowledgeable and moved on to Kever Rachelfor a few minutes of tefilah before heading back to Jerusalem for Shabbat.Unfortunately, with Chazzan Benny being under the weather, we had tomake due with other Ba’alei Tefilah.On Sunday we got up bright and early to visit the archaeological sites in theCity of David, including wedging our way through the Canaanite Channel.With Rabbi Berman and our guide, Moshe, we then headed off to Wade Fukin(near Beit Ha’areilit), to learn a little bit of the mishnayot and Torah sourcesabout shemitah and to take a look at the pools collecting water from thesprings up above on the agricultural steps.We left Moshe and headed past Ma’ale Adumim, to visit Mishmar HaGvul, theIsraeli Border Police. After an amazing lunch with more food than we couldhave ever imagined (especially the shnitzel!), we took a trip along some backroads to the Israeli Army’s border patrol center overlooking Jericho. The viewsout towards Jericho and Jordan were truly spectacular. Late Sunday night weall met up for the midnight Nishmat service, a spiritual and meaningful end toour day.Most of us headed off in different directions on our last day in Israel, meetingup again for a special dinner with Roi Amitai (the sole survivor from the tankthat was attacked and from which Gilad Shalit was abducted) who spokeabout being back in his unit in the army, waiting to be deployed to places ofconflict yet again. We want to thank Chazzan Benny for putting together anamazing trip that left us not only much more knowledgeable than when webegan– but truly inspired as well. Save the DateShabbat, May 17Advanced LeadershipKiddush LuncheonPage 7

General FundVivian & Daniel ChillEvelyn & Marlin GraberRochelle Tarlowe & Seth Jonas inhonor of the engagement of LarryKluger and Josie GlausiuszArlene & Larry KleinEduard Lowenthal in honor of receivingan aliyahHarry NeumarkBarbara & Peter Paris in honor of thebirth of their grandson, Eitan ChaimJoel Pelofsky in honor of the birth ofRabbi Ari & Anita Berman’s sonEnia & Mortimer ProppCraig Savage in honor of SteveGraberBert WeichselbaumMorris Wyszogrod and family inappreciation of The JC communityIn MemoriamSusan & Budd Bailin in memory ofMrs. Esther PerlIlana Breslau in memory of Dr.Skippy JotkowitzSharon & Gary Greengrass inmemory of Murray KleinRochelle Tarlowe & Seth Jonas inmemory of Dr. Seymour GreenfieldRochelle Tarlowe & Seth Jonas inmemory of Mrs. Rhea SchonzeitRochelle Tarlowe & Seth Jonas inmemory of Mr. Herman SteinRachel Kimmel in memory of PaulWarren RosenbergSara Kosowsky in memory of PaulRosenbergAmanda Nussbaum & Daniel Laifer inmemory of Dr. Seymour GreenfieldJudith Marbach in memory of herPage 8Donations 2008father, Winfield Scott BondyMaria & Glenn Reicin in memory ofDr. Seymour GreenfieldHoward Rieger in memory ofMichael RiegerAdrienne Goldfeder & Michael Turockin memory of Dr. SeymourGreenfieldAdina & Philip Wagman in memoryof Mr. George FalkAdina & Philip Wagman in memory ofMrs. Miriam RinglerAdina & Philip Wagman in memory ofMr. Herman SteinKiddush/ Seudah ShlishitMatthew Bobman in commemorationof the yahrzeit of his grandfather,Harry BobmanAndrew BorodachDavid Cohen in commemoration ofthe yahrzeit of his father, AbrahamCohenBrauna & Marvin Fortgang in commemorationof the yahrzeit ofBrauna’s father, Joseph EisenbergBehrman and Gover families in commemorationof the yahrzeit of EllenRoss GoverEsther & Steve Graber in commemorationof the yahrzeit of Esther’sfather, Abram JacobowitzJudith and Robert Grauman incommemoration of the yahrzeit ofJudith’s father, Harry GinigerRabbi Robert & Virginia Bayer Hirt inmemory of William Fischman andMerwin BayerLydia & Charles Hoffman in memoryof Charles’ mother, Sarah basChizkiyahu HakohenH. Elisa Iteld in commemoration ofthe yahrzeit of her father, JuliusIteldRochelle Tarlowe & Seth Jonas incommemoration of the yahrzeit ofSeth’s father, Mark CohenThe Kahn family in commemorationof the yahrzeit of Hugo KahnRona & Ira Kellman in commemorationof the yahrzeit of ClaireKellman and in honor of the birthof a granddaughter, MaliGoldberg-Kellman, born to IdanaGoldberg and Michael KellmanJosie Glausiusz & Larry Kluger inhonor of their engagementAnneBeth & Mark Levenson in honorof the birth of their daughter, ShiraDarrin Litsky in commemoration ofthe yahrzeit of his father, WilliamLitskyRebecca Pine & Saul Lubetski incommemoration of the yahrzeit ofSaul’s grandfather, Yehuda Leibben Yitzchak and in honor of allthe members of Daf YomiRachel Lurie in honor of our SanfordLurie Scholars and FellowsTiki & Simcha Lyons in commemorationof the yahrzeit of Tiki’s father,Rabbi Shmuel Tuvia SternRick Massel in commemoration of theyahrzeit of his mother, MatildaMontefiore MasselDinah & Andy Mendes in comemorationof the yahrzeit of Andy’smother, Mae MendesPaulette & David Meyer in commemorationof the yahrzeit ofDavid’s mother, Eva Meyer

Veronica & Erwin Muth in honor ofthe Bar Mitzvah of their grandson,Sammy RaskasEsther & Moses Nussbaum inhonor of the Bar Mitzvah oftheir grandson, Yeshaya Ze’evHoward Rieger in commemoration ofthe yahrzeit of his father, MichaelRiegerCeil & Irving Skydell in commemorationof the yahrzeit of Irving’smother, Helen SkydellLibrary FundAlvin & Mildred HellersteinPaulette & Samuel PapilskySpiro, Wagman & Vorchheimer familiesin memory of Mrs. Betty AdlerDonations 2008Sanford Lurie FundRabbi William and Beverly LebeauRachel LurieYouthAliza Herzberg Brodie & HowardBrodie in honor of ShainieLimor & Doron Gutkind in honor ofIdanAmanda Nussbaum & Daniel Laifer inhonor of Emmeline and CharlieRebecca & Bennett Lindenbaum inhonor of BenjaminChani & Mark Segall in honor of OrliSpecial Thank YouMarvin Fortgang for donating hislegal servicesFaye Grajower for designing anddonating a hand– made glass NerTamid to the Beit MidrashPaulette & Samuel Papilskyfor donating a new Megillah withwood and silver caseEnia Propp for donating two art col-lages from her private collectionBob Richter for building the ark,bimah and siddur rack for the BeitMidrashBeth Rosenberg for donating timeand expertise in renovating TheJewish Center offices * Information as of March 1, 2008. Weapologize for any omissions and askthat you please notify us if you werenot acknowledged in the above categoriesby emailing iris@jewishcenter.org.JC Lifecycles CommitteeDonate…Celebrate…CommemorateAIPAC Policy ConferenceJune 2-4, 2008Share in the lifecycle events of your family andfriends while supporting The Jewish Center. Opportunitiesfor all occasions are available at various levelsof giving. Donations and sponsorship opportunitiesare available, but not limited to, the following:▪Bimah Flowers▪Community Events▪Kiddush▪Library Fund▪Planned Giving▪Shabbat MevarchimKiddush▪Seudah Shlishit▪Rabbi Dr. Leo JungMemorial Fund▪YouthCreative ideas welcome!Listings will appear in Jewish Center publications andacknowledgements will be sent to honored parties. Contact usat Lifecycles@jewishcenter.org.Donate online at www.jewishcenter.org/donateor call the office at 212-724-2700.Join Rabbi Yosie Levine, Mrs. Elana Stein Hainand dozens of Jewish Center members in Washington,D.C. for the AIPAC Annual Policy Conference.This blockbuster event attracts more than5,000 pro-Israel activists from all 50 states. JewishCenter members will participate in three jampackeddays of programming, featuring addressesby America's and Israel's top leaders,scores of workshops led by senior experts in theirfields, and the chance to lobby members of Congressabout the importance of the U.S.-Israel relationship.For more information on The JewishCenter's delegation, contact Arthur Degen atadegen@nyc.rr.com.Page 9

Mazel tovRabbi ari and anita bermanon the birth of a boy, YonatanMeir.Shoshana & Ted Comet onthe birth of great-grandsons, born totheir grandchildren Jodi & Aaron Warumof Monsey, NY and RuthSara &Shuli Herschberg of Jerusalem.Mazel tov also to grandparents,Michele & Dr. Joel Comet of Jerusalem.Vivian & Bernard Falk onthe engagement of their son,Jeremy, to Elizabeth Silverman.Jordana Rothschild &Adam Farber on the birth of aboy.Ruda Fiedler on the engagementof her grandson, Eric Fiedler, toDaniella Kaplan.Israel Friedman on the marriageof his grandson, Daniel AryehGraber, to Lani Amster Perlman.Mazel tov also to aunt TovaFriedman.Debby & Elliot Gibber onthe engagement of their son, Michael,to Paula Hirschman.Hadassah Gold on the birth ofa great-granddaughter, Eliora Tehillah,born to her grandchildrenRachey & Ari Gold, children of Debbie& Zvi Gold.Shifra & Sam Goldberg onthe birth of a great-grandson, AkivaChanoch, born to Sarah & EphraimMernick of Lakewood. Mazel tov tograndparents Miriam & Alan Goldbergof Riverdale.Debbie & David Goldschmiedton the birth of a boy.Ari Greenfield on his marriageto Stacey Levine.Evelyn & Manny Gross onthe engagement of their daughter,Chanie, to Yisroel Naiman.AnnouncementsRobyn and ShukieGrossman on the birth of a boy.Melina Chopp & StevenHaber on the birth of a girl.Shelley & Dr. JonathanHelfand on the birth of a granddaughterborn to Sara & Avi Helfand.Susan & Bernard Hutmanon the birth of a boy.Avi Jacobowitz on completingthe Wheels of Love 283 mile bicycleride from Tiberias to Jerusalem forthe Alyn Pediatric Rehab Hospital inJerusalem.Yael Kalcheim on herengagement to Dr. Danny Fink.Sanford Lurie ScholarAaron Katz on his marriage toMolly Elkins.Rona & Ira Kellman on thebirth of a granddaughter, born toIdana Goldberg and Michael Kellman.Larry Kluger on his engagementto Josie Glausiusz.Edith Koevary on the marriageof her daughter, Linda, to JerryGissinger.Mindy & Rabbi NormanLamm on the engagement of theirgranddaughter, Ariela Warburg, toDaniel Harcsztark and on the marriageof their grandson, Ari Lamm, toShlomit Schwalb.Eileen & Herbert Lauer onthe birth of a granddaughter, ShoshanaMalka, to Janet & Neil Lauer.Yael federbush & RobertLebowitz on the birth of a boyand to grandparents Dora &Manny Federbush. Mazel tovalso to sisters Maya and Julia andaunts Judy and Dana.AnneBeth & Mark Levensonon the birth of a girl.Randy Longman on his marriageto Jenny Ruzow.Ann Goldhirsch & BarryLove on the birth of a boy.Chana & Eddie Lowenthalon the Bat Mitzvah of their daughter,Rebecca. Mazel tov to grandmotherRandie Lowenthal and auntand uncle Leah & PaulLowenthal.Rebecca Pine & SaulLubetski on the birth of a boy.Judy Marbach on the birth of agranddaughter, Rosalyn Pearl Oberstein,born to Cecily Marbach & EllyOberstein.Dr. Susan Unger &Steven Mero and to big sisters,Ariella, Danielle and Gabrielle, on thebirth of twin girls, Sarah Hannah(Soroh Miriam) and Rebecca Lily(Rivkah Leah).Debby and Melvin Neumarkon the marriage of theirgrandson, Eytan Shalev.Marc Nudelman on hisengagement to Lauren Taub.Drs. Esther and ElmerOffenbacher on the birth of agreat-granddaughter, Shira Beracha,born to Or-Tal and Menachem AryehOphir of Maaleh Adumim.Yair Oppenheim on his engagementto Aviva Bieler.Samara & Michael Papilskyon the birth of twins, a boy anda girl. Mazel tov to grandparentsPaulette & Samuel Papilskyand to aunts and unclesElissa & Gary Papilsky andNicole & David Pfeffermann.Barbara and Peter Parison the birth of a grandson, EitanChaim, born to Chava Resnick andAndrew Paris.Ilana and David Prager onthe birth of a boy, Mayer Menachem.Eva Romer on the engagementof her grandson, Tsvi Greenfield, toHenni Davidson.Page 10

Tamar Kuhl & YitzchakRosenthal on the birth of a girl.Angela & Selig Sacks on theBar Mitzvah of their son, Daniel.Elie Haller & Awi Salomonon their marriage.Paula Gantz & RobertSalpeter on the birth of a granddaughter,Ma’ayan Yehudit Salpeter,born in Jerusalem to Shoshana &Seth.Jonathan Schilowitz oncompleting the NYC marathon.Joshua Schwalbe on his marriageto Aliza Susswein.Jeff Schwartz on his marriageto Dr. Alanna Toll.Nechi Shudofsky on the marriageof her grandson, Eytan Shalev.Hedy Shulman on the birth of agrandson, Daniel Maxwell, born toTamara Klein Shulman & Dr. MarcShulman.Dana Siegal on completing theNYC marathon.Roberta & Michael Sigallon the marriage of their son, Jeremy,to Shayndi Raice.Layaliza & Rabbi MeirSoloveichik on the birth of a girl.Annie & Naftali Trauringon the marriage of their grandson,Michael Weichholz, to Lily Senders.Jennifer Gluck, ElizabethGoldman, Rachel Kalaban,Yoel Kelman, MichelleLebowits, Joey Lifschitz,Stephen Rutenberg,Dana Siegal and RachelTrauring on completingthe Miami ING Marathon and HalfMarathon to benefit Chai Lifeline.Meira and Toby Tugendhafton the engagement of theirdaughter, Brigitte, to David Kestenbaum.Atara & Zeesha Twerskyon the birth of a boy.AnnouncementsAbby Zausmer & SethWeiss on their marriage.Dorothy & Jacques VanAmerongen on the Bat Mitzvahof their granddaughter, Jennifer,daughter of Susie & Dr. Robert VanAmerongen, and to the proud greatgrandmother,Mrs. Anna VanAmerongen.Leon Wildes on being honoredby Yeshiva University at its annualdinner.Sylvia and Raphael Zeevion the birth of a grandson, Netanel,born to Elana and David Zeevi ofJerusalem.Alan Zwiebel on the birth of agrandson, James, born to JenniferZwiebel and Matthew Davey.CondolencesRandolph ChesterBeloved member of The Jewish Center.Chanah Cohen on the loss ofher sister, Carolyn Slutsky.Dr. Henry Edinger on theloss of his mother, Manda Edinger.Rochelle Eliav on the loss ofher father, Wolf Posalski.Bernard Falk on the loss of hisfather, George Falk.Judy Golzman on the loss ofher brother, Fred Rubinfeld.Virginia bayer hirt on theloss of her mother, Molly Jean Bayer.Chaviva Kaplan on the loss ofher father, Dr. Seymour Greenfield.Edith Klein on the loss of herhusband, our member, MurrayKlein.Joan Papier Lieberman onthe loss of her mother, Yvette Axelrad.Irwin Major on the loss of hisfather, Raymond Major.Larry Malitzky on the loss ofhis father, Harold Malitzky.Deborah Marcus on the lossof her father, Chaim Lichtenstein.Paulette Meyer on the loss ofher father, Herman Stein.Molly MoedBeloved member of The Jewish Center.Susan Adler Neumark onthe loss of her mother, Betty Adler.Cynthia Perl on the loss of hermother, Ethel Perl.Rachel Ringler on the loss ofher mother, Miriam Ringler.Dr. Chana ringel on the lossof her father, David Ringel.Ellen Rosenberg andGregg Rosenberg on the lossof their father, Paul WarrenRosenberg.Andrew Schonzeit on theloss of his mother, Rhea Schonzeit.Allen Smith on the loss of hisfather, David Smith.Jeff Sussman on the loss of hissister, Dara Niv.Jill Wildes on the loss of herfather, Irwin Brandfon.Morris Wyzsogrod on theloss of his wife, Helen Wyzsogrod.Shy Yellin on the loss of his father,Leonard Yellin.Raphael Zeevi on the loss ofhis mother, Rosa Zeevi. * Information as of March 1, 2008.We apologize for any omissions andask that you please notify us if youwere not acknowledged in theabove listings by emailingshira@jewishcenter.org.Page 11

Jc Technology updateAs we ushered in 2008, The Jewish Center has also usheredin some important new technology. Our first importantadditions revolve around live learning. Among thenewest courses offered at The Jewish Center is a liveclass with Rabbi Yissocher Frand via internet on Thursdayevenings (thanks to Josh Goldberg’s initiative) andthe Webinar series on Fundamentals of Jewish Faith.The pre-Pesach mini-mester includes a webinar introductionto cleaning for Pesach from our clergy and educationalstaff.Another important advance in our technologies has beenour presence on Yeshiva University’s website. Currently,Yeshiva’s site, www.yutorah.org, features all of The JewishCenter’s classes, broadening our significant partnershipwith this flagship institution. Additionally, this movehas provided us with the ability to expand our audio classofferings on our own website.Thus far, 2008 has exhibited much growth in the area ofcomputerized learning. We hope to cross new boundariesand broaden our horizons in the years ahead. Jewish Center University On-lineRabbi Ari Schwarzberg and Mrs. Elana Stein Haindeliver JCU classes via webcam.Missed a JCU class?Listen to a digitalrecording anytime atwww.jewishcenter.org/learning_liveJCU Spring Semester HighlightsNew!The JC welcomesSuperSoccerStarsto the 5th floor.Get the ball rolling! SuperSoccer Stars, New YorkCity's most popular soccerdevelopment program,comes to The Jewish Center!Dynamic internationalcoaches work with everystudent to develop skills,self-confidence, and teamworkin a fun, noncom petitive e n vir on -ment. Positive reinforcementand a low child-tocoach r atio ensurethat each child will improvehis or her soccerskills through engagingwarm-ups, drills, andgames--all while havingendless fun!10% discount offered toJewish Center Members.www.supersoccerstars.com212-877-7171• Introduction to Academic TalmudMrs. Elana Stein Hain• The Thought of Emanuel LevinasProfessor David Kleinberg-Levin• Laying Down the Law: The Inner Workings of HalachahRabbi Ozer GlickmanSave the DateArmchair ConversationBiblical Authorship and the Documentary HypothesisTuesday, May 6 at 8:15PMWithProfessor James Kugel&Rabbi David SilberModerated by Rabbi Adam MintzComplete JCU course listings coming soon in the spring brochure and online atwww.jewishcenter.org/jcuPage 12

Upcoming Events and programsPesach Food DriveMarch 20 To April 9 (Kosher for Passover food)/April 16 (Chametz food)Drop off sealed Kosher for Passover items or Chametzitems in The JC lobby.Rabbi Leo Jung’s Impact on The Jewish CenterFamily: Perspectives from Three GenerationsShabbat, April 12 at Seudah ShlishitMeryl Degen, Avery Neumark, Martin Schwarzchildand Elza Weinman.Sisterhood Flower Arranging ClassTuesday, March 25 at 7:00PMJoin Sisterhood for a special flower arranging class atThe Jewish Center. Registration is closed.Third Annual Pre-PassoverWine Tasting ExtravaganzaSunday, March 30 from 2:00PM–5:00PMSample over 300 kosher wines from Gotham Wines, includinghigh end French and Israeli wines and new releases.Youth Birthday KidYouth Birthday KiddushShabbat, April 5 at 11:30AMCelebrate a March or April birthday with The Jewish Centerfamily! To participate or help sponsor, contactsharongreengrass@yahoo.com.Youth Chocolate SederSunday, April 6 at 10:00AMCan't drink four cups of wine? How about four cups ofchocolate milk?! Join us for a Pre-Pesach Seder with theunique touch of chocolate. At Lincoln Square Synagogue.Pre-Pesach Package DeliverySunday, April 6 at 10:00AMDeliver Pre-Pesach packages (provided by Dorot) andvisit with seniors in our community. Meet at Dorot, 171 W.85 St. For more info contact bikkurcholim@jewishcenter.org.Jewish Center Book Club DiscussionSunday, April 6 at 7:30PMDiscussing Reading Lolita in Tehran. Esther Nussbaumwill lead the discussion at the home of Dinah and AndyMendes. Contact bookclub@jewishcenter.org to RSVP.Pesach Kashering at The JCSunday, April 13 from 9:30AM to 12:30PMBring your pots, pans and utensils that need to bekashered.Save the date–Armchair Conversationwith Professor James Kugel& Rabbi David SilberTuesday, May 6 at 8:15PMYom Ha’atzmautCommunity Celebrationat Manhattan Day SchoolWednesday, May 7Scholar in ResidenceIn Honor of theState of Israel at 60 YearsRabbi Dr. Jacob J. SchachterShabbat, May 10AIPAC Policy ConferenceJune 2-4, 2008JC Bike Club New!The JC Bike Club will meet every other Sundaymorning, beginning after Pesach. Join usas we bike along trails in the Manhattan area.For more info or to get involved, contact AviJacobowitz at avrocdia@yahoo.com.JC Running Club New!The JC Running Club will meet every Sundaymorning, beginning after Pesach. Join us aswe train for local marathons. For more info orto get involved, contact Dana Siegal atdanasiegal@yahoo.com.Page 13

March 2008Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat1 24 Adar IParshat VayakhelHashkama 7:45AMIsrael SilversteinMishnayot 8:30AMShach 9:00AMMinchat Chinuch 9:15AMYoung Leadership 9:30AMBeginners’ Service 9:30AMEarly Minchah 12:35PMMinchah 5:15PMDaf YomiShabbat Afternoon Talmud2 25 Adar IIsrael Friedman DafYomi 8:00 AMShach 8:30 AMBagel Bunch9:05AMJC Blood Drive10:00AMMinchah 5:35PM9 2 Adar IIIsrael Friedman DafYomi 8:00 AMShach 8:30 AMBagel Bunch9:05AMMinchah 6:45PM3 26 Adar IShach 7 & 8 AMIsrael FriedmanDaf Yomi 7:45 AMMinchah 5:35 PMWomen’s Tehillim7:15PMLegal Loopholes II7:30PMAdvanced Talmud forWomen 8:30PM10 3 Adar IIShach 7 & 8 AMIsrael Friedman DafYomi 7:45 AMMinchah 6:45 PMLegal Loopholes II7:30PMAdvanced Talmudfor Women8:30PM4 27 Adar IShach 7 & 8 AMIsrael Friedman DafYomi 7:45 AMMinchah 5:35 PMJudaism & Villainy8:00PM11 4 Adar IIShach 7 & 8 AMIsrael Friedman DafYomi 7:45 AMMinchah 6:45 PMJudaism & Villainy8:00PM5 28 Adar IShach 7 & 8 AMIsrael Friedman DafYomi 7:45 AMAdvanced Talmud7:45AMWomen of the Bible11:00AMMinchah 5:35 PMPathways 8:00PM12 5 Adar IIShach 7 & 8 AMIsrael Friedman DafYomi 7:45 AMAdvanced Talmud7:45AMWomen of the Bible11:00AMMinchah 6:45 PMPathways 8:00PM6 29 Adar IShach 7 & 8 AMIsrael Friedman DafYomi 7:45 AMMinchah 5:35 PMRabbi Frand Live9:00PM13 6 Adar IIShach 7 & 8 AMIsrael Friedman DafYomi 7:45 AMMinchah 6:45 PMRabbi Frand Live9:00PM7 30 Adar IShach 6:45 & 8:00 AMIsrael Friedman DafYomi 7:45 AM◊ 5:36PMMinchah 5:40 PM14 7 Adar IIShach 7 & 8 AMIsrael Friedman DafYomi 7:45 AM◊ 6:44 PMMinchah 6:50 PM8 1 Adar IIParshat Pekudei/ShekalimHashkama 7:30AMMishnayot 8:30AMShach 9:00AMMinchat Chinuch 9:15AMYoung Leadership 9:30AMBeginners’ Service 9:30AMEarly Minchah 12:35PMMinchah 5:25PMDaf YomiAfternoon Talmud§ 6:37 PMSisterhood: South PacificMove Clocks Forward15 8 Adar IIParshat Vayikra/ZachorHashkama 7:45AMMishnayot 8:30AMShach 9:00AMMinchat Chinuch 9:15AMYoung Leadership 9:30AMBeginners’ Service 9:30AMDaf YomiAfternoon Talmud5:55PMMinchah 6:40PM§ 7:45PM16 9 Adar IIIsrael Friedman DafYomi 8:00 AMShach 8:30 AMBagel Bunch9:05AMMinchah 6:50PM23 16 Adar IIIsrael Friedman DafYomi 8:00 AMShach 8:30 AMBagel Bunch9:05AMMinchah 7:00PM30 23 Adar IIIsrael Friedman Daf Yomi8:00 AMShach 8:30 AMBagel Bunch 9:05AMPre-PesachWine Tasting2:00-5:00PMMinchah 7:05PM17 10 Adar IIShach 7 & 8 AMIsrael Friedman DafYomi 7:45 AMMinchah 6:50 PMWomen’s Tehillim7:15PMAdvanced Talmudfor Women8:30PM24 17 Adar IIShach 7 & 8 AMIsrael Friedman DafYomi 7:45 AMMinchah 7:00PMLonely Man ofFaith7:30PM31 24 Adar IIShach 7 & 8 AMIsrael FriedmanDaf Yomi 7:45 AMMinchah 7:05 PMWomen’s Tehillim 7:15PMPassover Poetry 8:00PMAdvanced Talmud forWomen 8:30PM18 11 Adar IIShach 7 & 8 AMIsrael Friedman DafYomi 7:45 AMMinchah 6:50 PMJudaism & Villainy8:00PM25 18 Adar IIShach 7 & 8 AMIsrael Friedman DafYomi 7:45 AMMinchah 7:00PMSisterhood FlowerArranging 7:00PMSecret Seder8:00PM19 12 Adar IIShach 7 & 8 AMIsrael Friedman DafYomi 7:45 AMAdvanced Talmud7:45AMWomen of the Bible11:00AMMinchah 6:50 PMPathways 8:00PM26 19 Adar IIShach 7 & 8 AMIsrael Friedman Daf Yomi7:45 AMAdvanced Talmud7:45AMWomen of the Bible11:00AMMinchah 7:00PMShefoch Chamatcha7:45PMTell Me More 8:30PM20 13 Adar IIFast Begins 5:36AMShach 6:45& 7:45 AMIsrael Friedman DafYomi 7:45 AMMinchah 6:40PMMaariv & Megillah7:30PMFast Ends 7:38PMLate Megillah 9:30PMTaanit Esther27 20 Adar IIShach 7 & 8 AMIsrael Friedman DafYomi 7:45 AMMinchah 7:00PMRabbi Frand Live9:00PM21 14 Adar IIShach & Megillah6:00 & 7:00 AMLate Megillah 10:00AMPurim Carnival 10:00AMYCF PurimBasket Delivery◊ 6:51 PMMinchah 6:55 PMPurim Community Dinner8:00PMPurim28 21 Adar IIShach 7 & 8 AMIsrael Friedman DafYomi 7:45 AM◊ 6:59 PMMinchah 7:00 PM22 15 Adar IIParshat TzavHashkama 7:45AMMishnayot 8:30AMShach 9:00AMMinchat Chinuch 9:15AMYoung Leadership 9:30AMBeginners’ Service 9:30AMDaf YomiAfternoon Talmud 6:00 PMMinchah 6:45PM§ 7:52 PMYouth ShabbatShushan Purim29 22 Adar IIParshat Shemini/ ParahSanford LurieScholars and FellowsShabbatonHashkama 7:45AMMishnayot 8:30AMShach 9:00AMMinchat Chinuch 9:15AMYoung Leadership 9:30AMBeginners’ Service 9:30AMDaf Yomi, Afternoon Talmud6:10PMMinchah 6:55PM§ 8:00 PMPage 14 ◊ Candlelighting § Shabbat Ends

April 2008Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat1 25 Adar IIShach 7 & 8 AMIsrael Friedman DafYomi 7:45 AMMJE Annual Dinner6:00PMMinchah 7:10 PM2 26 Adar IIShach 7 & 8 AMIsrael Friedman DafYomi 7:45 AMAdvanced Talmud7:45AMWomen of the Bible11:00AMMinchah 7:10 PMSpontaneous Song7:45PMTell Me More 8:30PM3 27 Adar IIShach 7 & 8 AMIsrael Friedman DafYomi 7:45 AMMinchah 7:10 PMRabbi Frand Live9:00PM4 28 Adar IIShach 7 & 8 AMIsrael Friedman DafYomi 7:45 AMMinchah 7:00 PM◊ 7:06 PM5 29 Adar IIParshat Tazriyah/ HachodeshHashkama 7:45AMRabbi Israel SilversteinMishnayot 8:30AMShach 9:00AMMinchat Chinuch 9:15AMYoung Leadership 9:30AMBeginners’ Service 9:30AMYouth Birthday KiddushShabbat Afternoon TalmudIsrael Friedman Daf Yomi 6:15PMMinchah 7:00PM§ 8:07PM6 1 NissanIsrael Friedman DafYomi 8:00 AMShach 8:30 AMBagel Bunch9:30AMChocolate Seder10:00AMMinchah 7:15PMBook Club Meeting7:30PMRosh Chodesh7 2 NissanShach 7 & 8 AMIsrael Friedman DafYomi 7:45 AMMinchah 7:15 PMAdvanced Talmudfor Women 8:30PMPassover Poetry8:00PM8 3 NissanShach 7 & 8 AMIsrael Friedman DafYomi 7:45 AMMinchah 7:15 PMSeder Pearls 7:45PMPreparing forPesach 8:45PM9 4 NissanShach 7 & 8 AMIsrael Friedman DafYomi 7:45 AMAdvanced Talmud7:45AMWomen of the Bible11:00AMMinchah 7:15 PMParty Animals7:45PMTell Me More 8:30PM10 5 NissanShach 7 & 8 AMIsrael Friedman DafYomi 7:45 AMMinchah 7:15 PMRabbi Frand Live9:00PM11 6 NissanShach 7 & 8 AMIsrael Friedman DafYomi 7:45 AMMinchah 7:00 PM◊ 7:15 PM12 7 NissanParshat MetzorahRabbi Israel SilversteinMishnayot 8:30AMShach 9:00AMBeginners’ Service 9:30AMShabbat HaGadol Drashahby Rabbi Yosie LevineIsrael Friedman Daf YomiShabbat Afternoon TalmudMinchah 6:45PMRabbi JungPanel Discussion§ 8:15PM13 8 NissanIsrael Friedman DafYomi 8:00 AMShach 8:30 AMBagel Bunch9:05AMPesach Kashering9:30AM-12:30PMMinchah 7:20PM14 9 NissanShach 7 & 8 AMIsrael Friedman DafYomi 7:45 AMWomen’s Tehillim7:15PMMinchah 7:20 PMPassover Poetry8:00PMAdvanced Talmudfor Women 8:30PM15 10 NissanShach 7 & 8 AMIsrael Friedman DafYomi 7:45 AMMinchah 7:20 PMFast or a Fast One?8:00PM16 11 NissanShach 7 & 8 AMIsrael Friedman DafYomi 7:45 AMAdvanced Talmud7:45AMWomen of the Bible11:00AMMinchah 7:20 PMTell Me More 8:30PM17 12 NissanFast begins 4:44AMShach 7 & 8 AMSiyum 7:50AMIsrael Friedman DafYomi 7:50 AMMinchah 7:20 PMFast ends 8:08PMSearch for Chametzafter 8:20PMFast of the Firstborn18 13 NissanShach 7 :00AMIsrael Friedman DafYomi 7:45 AMBurn Chametz by 11:47AMMinchah 7:00PM◊ 7:21PMCommunity Dinner8:00PM19 14 NissanParshat Acharei MotShach 8:30 AMFollowed by Kiddush and HamotziFinish Eating Chametz by 10:39AMNullify Chametz 11:46AMIsrael Friedman Daf Yomi 6:30PMMinchah 7:15PM◊After 8:22PMAll preparations for Sederafter 8:22PMChatzot 12:54 AMErev PesachFirst Seder20 15 NissanShach 9:00 AMIsrael Friedman DafYomi 6:40PMMinchah 7:25PM◊ 8:23 PMAll preparations forSeder after 8:23PMChatzot 12:54AM21 16 NissanShach 9:00 AMIsrael Friedman DafYomi 6:40PMMinchah 7:25PM§ 8:25PM22 17 NissanShach 6:45 AMIsrael Friedman DafYomi 7:45 AMMinchah 7:30PM23 18 NissanShach 6:45 AMIsrael Friedman DafYomi 7:45 AMMinchah 7:30PM24 19 NissanShach 6:45 AMIsrael Friedman DafYomi 7:45 AMMinchah 7:30PM25 20 NissanShach 6:45 AMIsrael Friedman DafYomi 7:45 AMMinchah 7:00PM◊ 7:28 PM26 21 NissanShach 9:00AMShir HashirimIsrael Friedman Daf Yomi6:35PMShabbat AfternoonTalmudMinchah 7:20PM◊8:31PMAll preparations for Yom Tovafter 8:31PMPesach ISecond Seder27 22 NissanShach 9:00 AMYizkor 10:30AMIsrael FriedmanDaf Yomi 6:45PMMinchah 7:30 PM§ 8:32PMPesach IIOmer 128 23 NissanShach 7:00AMIsrael Friedman DafYomi 7:45 AMWomen’s Tehillim7:15PMMinchah 7:35 PMChol Hamoed IOmer 229 24 NissanShach 7 & 8 AMIsrael Friedman DafYomi 7:45 AMMinchah 7:35 PMChol Hamoed IIOmer 330 25 NissanShach 7 & 8 AMIsrael Friedman DafYomi 7:45 AMMinchah 7:35PMChol Hamoed IIIOmer 4Chol Hamoed IVOmer 5Pesach VIIOmer 6JCU SpringSemester beginsnext week!Register onlineatwww.jewishcenter.orgPesach VIIIOmer 7Omer 8Omer 9Omer 10◊ Candlelighting § Shabbat/Yom Tov Ends Page 15

Pesach Schedule 2008 / 5768Sale of Chametz:Rabbi Levine or Rabbi Rackovskywill be available at TheCenter at the following times:After Shacharit and Minchah/MaarivMinyanim fromApril 6 to April 16; Sun., April13: 9:00AM—12:00PM; Mon.,April 14, Tues., April 15 andWed., April 16: 7:45PM—9:15PM; office hours.Shabbat, April 12Shabbat HaGadol Drashah byRabbi Yosie LevineSunday, April 139:30AM-12:30PMPesach KasheringThursday, April 17Fast of the FirstbornFast begins 4:44AMShacharit 7:00 & 8:00AMSiyum 7:50AMMinchah 7:20PMFast ends 8:08PMSearch for chametz after 8:20PMFriday, April 18Shacharit 7:00AMBurn chametz by 11:47AMMinchah 7:00PMCandle lighting 7:21PMCommunity Dinner 8:00PMShabbat, April 19Erev Pesach, First SederShacharit 8:30AMKiddush and Hamotzi precedingMussaf (see pg. 21 for details).Finish eating chametz by10:39AMNullify chametz by 11:46AMMinchah 7:15PMCandle lighting and all Sederpreparations after 8:22PMChatzot 12:54AMSunday, april 20Pesach i, second sederShacharit 9:00AMMinchah 7:25PMCandle lighting and all Sederpreparations after 8:23PMChatzot 12:54AMMonday, April 21Pesach ii, omer 1Shacharit 9:00AMMinchah 7:25PMYom Tov ends 8:25PMTuesday, april 22chol hamoed I, omer 2Shacharit 6:45AMMinchah 7:30PMWednesday, April 23chol hamoed ii, omer 3Shacharit 6:45AMMinchah 7:30PMThursday, April 24Chol Hamoed III, Omer 4Shacharit 6:45AMMinchah 7:00PMFriday, April 25Chol Hamoed IV, Omer 5Shacharit 6:45AMMinchah 7:00PMCandle lighting 7:28PMShabbat, April 26Pesach VII, Omer 6Shacharit 9:00AMShir HaShirimMinchah 7:15PMCandle lighting and all preparationsfor Yom Tov after 8:31PMSunday, April 27Pesach viii, omer 7Shacharit 9:00AMYizkor 10:30AMMinchah 7:30PMYom Tov ends 8:32PMPlease wait one hour beforepartaking of sold chametz.Pesach Food DriveMarch 20– April 9(Kosher for Passover food)March 20– April 16(Chametz food items)The Jewish Center Social ActionCommittee is working together withthe Kosher Division of City Harvestto deliver food to Jewish agenciesthat feed hungry children and adults.Drop off sealed Kosher for Passoveritems or Chametz items in The JClobby.Page 16

Pre-Pesach Mini-Mester at The JCJCU Pre-Pesach Mini-Mester Begins with the Acclaimed DocumentaryLonely Man of FaithMonday, March 24 at 7:30PMFollowed by question and answer session withproducer and director, Ethan IsenbergTo purchase tickets, please visit www.jewishcenter.orgTuesdays: Law & LoreKarpas and the Secret of the SederWashing hands over karpas is a oncea year occurrence. Learn about theorigins of this practice and the hiddensubtext it reveals in the Seder.Rabbi Ariel RackovskyTuesday, March 25 at 8:00PMPreparing for PesachA special presentation which willtouch all of the Pesach bases, includingquestions pertaining to ErevPesach which falls out on Shabbat.Rabbi Yosie LevineTuesday, April 8 at 8:45PMFast or a Fast One?:A First-born’s DilemmaThe fast of the first-born is the onlyfast that can be avoided. Rabbi ArielRackovsky offers a first-born’s insightinto the reason for this uniqueness.Rabbi Ariel RackovskyTuesday, April 15 at 8:00PMWednesdays: Sanford Lurie Fellows SeriesTell Me MorePesach is synonymous with retellingthe Exodus narrative and sharinginsights about it with family andfriends. In this special four part series,Rabbi Yehuda Willig will shareinspirational ideas guaranteed toelevate your Passover celebration.Rabbi Yehuda WilligWednesdays at 8:30PMMarch 26– April 16Spontaneous Song:Hallel on Seder NightDuring this class we will explore thenature of Hallel recited duringthe Seder and determine how itplays a critical role the entire Sederexperience. How similar or dissimilaris this Hallel to the Hallelrecited on the other holidays?Malka AdattoWednesday, April 2 at 7:45PMParty Animals: The Offerings ofChag HaPesachIn Temple times, the holiday ofPesach was celebrated with uniquesacrifices. While these are nolonger offered, their message stillresonates. In this class, MalkaAdatto will discuss what the Passoverof ancient times can teach usabout how to celebrate it today.Malka AdattoWednesday, April 9 at 7:45PMLiterature & LiturgyShefoch Chamatcha: Are We aVengeful People?The prayer we recite toward the endof the Seder, Shefoch Chamatcha, inwhich we ask God to pour his wrathout on those who don't know Him,has caused discomfort to many modernJews living in a secular society.This class will explore the role of retributionin the redemptive process,what this prayer means and what itsays about us.Mrs. Elana Stein HainWednesday, March 26 at 7:45PMPassover PoetryPesach is known for its catchy tunesand memorable songs. What is lessknown is the exquisite poetry associatedwith the holiday. This three partseries will illuminate three poetic hallmarksof the Passover liturgy: TheSong at the Sea, Song of Songs andChad Gadya.Rabbi Ari SchwarzbergMondays at 8:00PMMarch 31– April 14Seder PearlsJoin us for this perennial favorite featuringthree twenty minute presentationsby JC clergy for fresh ideas andclassic thoughts on the Pesach Seder.JC FacultyTuesday, April 8 at 7:45PMPage 17

Pesach in Ten Easy StepsPreparing for Pesach can be overwhelmingand anxiety provoking.Use this handy guide to help easeany angst.STEP #1:Preparing Your Pesach KitchenThe laws of kashering kitchens andutensils are complex. All are invitedto kasher their movable utensils atThe Jewish Center on Sunday,April 13 from 9:30AM to 12:30PM.Appliances:Gas Cooktop: On a gas range, themetal grates upon which the potson the range sit may be kasheredby turning the flame on high for 15minutes. In order to spread theflame over the entire grate, it is advisableto cover the grates with ablech, a piece of heavy-duty aluminumfoil, or a pot full of water duringthe kashering. The rest of the range(the area between the burners)should be cleaned and covered witha double layer of heavy-duty aluminumfoil. The burners themselvesdo not need kashering or covering,just cleaning. The drip pans shouldbe thoroughly cleaned and need notbe kashered.Electric cooktop: One need onlyturn the burners to the high heatsetting for a few minutes in order tokasher them, since the burnerscome to a glow in a few minutes.The remaining cooktop areasshould be covered.Glass Covered Tops: Pleasespeak with Rabbi Levine.Conventional oven: Whether gasor electric, the oven must be completelycleaned before kashering.Oven cleaner may be necessary toremove baked-on grease*. Oncethe oven and racks have beencleaned, they may be kashered by“Libbun Kal,” i.e., turning the ovento the broil setting for forty minutes.In a gas oven, the broil setting willallow the flame to burn continuously.In a conventional electricoven, the highest setting (broil or550 o F) kashers the oven.“Continuous-cleaning” oven:One cannot assume that the ovenis clean simply because the manufacturerclaims it to be continuouslyclean. A visual inspection is required**.The oven should then bekashered by turning it to the broilsetting for forty minutes.Self-cleaning oven: The selfcleaningcycle cleans and kashersthe oven simultaneously. This istrue for convection ovens with aself-cleaning feature as well. Theoven need not be carefully cleanedbeforehand, because everythinginside the oven is reduced to ash.The oven door and rubber aroundthe door should, however, be completelyclean before the self-cleancycle.Broiler: The broiler pan and grillcannot be kashered by just turningon the gas or electricity. Since foodis cooked directly on the pan or grill,they must be heated to a glow(“Libbun Gamur”) in order to beused on Pesach. An alternatemethod is to replace the pan with anew pan and kasher the emptybroiler cavity by cleaning and settingit to broil for forty minutes. Ifone does not intend to use thebroiler on Pesach, one may still usethe oven, even without kasheringthe broiler, provided that the broilerhas been thoroughly cleaned orcovered with heavy-duty tin foil.Similarly, other cooktop inserts,such as a griddle or a barbecuebroiler, would require heating thesurface to a red glow before usage(“Libbun Gamur”).Microwave Ovens: Microwaveswhose inside is made of metal maybe kashered by first cleaning themout thoroughly, then placing a containerfilled with water in the ovenand boiling it until the oven fills withsteam. Microwave ovens whoseinside is made of plastic present akashering problem. Fortunately,many do not heat up the oven wallsenough to cause a real kashrut concern.Clean the microwave well,then boil a cup of water on the highestsetting for 10 minutes. Quicklyinsert your hand and touch the ovenceiling: if it is too hot to touch, themicrowave should not be used forPesach***. If it is relatively cool (oreven warm), the oven may be usedand has just been kashered. Theglass plate (if you have one) shouldbe covered with saran wrap.Sinks are generally made fromchina, corian, porcelain, stainlesssteel or granite. China sinks cannotbe kashered at all. Porcelain or coriansinks are treated like chinasinks, since there is a controversywhether these materials can bekashered. These sinks should becleaned, not used for twenty-fourhours, and completely lined withcontact paper or foil. The dishesthat are to be washed should not beplaced directly into the sink. Theymust be washed in a Pesach dishpan that is placed on a Pesachrack. Alternatively, a sink insert canbe purchased, allowing for theplacement of either milk or meatdishes directly into the sink.Stainless steel sinks can bekashered by the following method.First, clean the sink thoroughly. Hotwater should not be used or pouredin the sink for twenty-four hoursprior to kashering. It is recommendedthat the hot shut-off valveunder the sink be turned off twentyfourhours before kashering.Kashering is accomplished by pouringboiling water from a Pesachkettle/pot over every part of thestainless steel sink. The pouredwater must touch every part of thesink, including the drain and thespout of the water faucet.Page 18

It is likely that the kashering kettlewill need to be refilled a few timesbefore the kashering can be completed.Granite sinks can bekashered like stainless steel.Countertops made of granite mayalso be kashered. Formica countertopsshould be cleaned and coveredwith a waterproof material.The same goes for tables with synthetictops. Wood tables can theoreticallybe kashered with boilingwater, but the custom is to cleanand cover them.Refrigerators should be washed(shelves, walls and compartments).Utensils:It is preferred to have utensilsreserved for Pesach use. If one isunable to use special utensils forPesach, many utensils usedthroughout the year may bekashered for Pesach. These includemetal utensils which are notdifficult to clean (a sieve, for example,or a utensil which has partsthat are glued together, would notbe kasherable) and glass utensilsthat were used strictly for cold food.According to Ashkenazic custom,glassware used for cooking, as wellas earthenware, pottery, porcelain,pyrex, and chinaware may not bekashered. Arcolac, Duralex &Corelle should be treated as glassfor kashering purposes. Plasticutensils are not kashered. Glassutensils which came into contactwith only cold chametz should becleaned with a cleaning solutionand then immersed in water forthree days, changing the waterevery 24 hours.Kashering may be done either athome or at The Jewish Center,Sunday, April 13, 9:30 AM – 12:30PM.There are two different proceduresfor kashering:1. Hag’alah: Metal utensils whichcame into contact with heatedchametz in a medium of water (i.e.,utensils in which chametz wascooked; pots are a good example)may be kashered via the procedureknown as hag’alah, which involvesimmersion in boiling water, as explainedbelow.2. Libbun: Metal utensils whichcame into direct contact withheated chametz without the mediumof water (e.g., a broiler) maybe kashered by heating them untilthey are literally “red-hot,” or byplacing them in a self-cleaning ovenduring the self-clean cycle.The procedure for hag’alah is asfollows:1. Metal Utensils that have beenused for cooking, serving or eatinghot chometz may be kashered bycleaning them thoroughly, waitingtwenty-four hours, and then immersingthem one by one in a largepot (which has not been used forchametz within the last 24 hours)full of water which maintains a rollingboil when the vessel is immersed.Note that we do not kasherpans coated with Teflon.2. The utensils undergoing kasheringmay not touch each other onthe way in to the pot. In otherwords, if a set of flatware is beingkashered, one cannot take all theknives, forks and spoons and putthem in the boiling water together.They should be placed into the boilingwater one by one. The processis finalized by rinsing the kashereditems in cold water. If tongs areused to grip the utensil, the utensilwill have to be immersed a secondtime with the tong in a different positionso that the boiling water willtouch the initially gripped area. Theentire utensil does not have to bekashered at once; it may be done inparts.3. Please watch out for utensils thatare rusty or difficult to clean properly.Silverware made of two parts(a handle and a blade, for instance)should most often not be kashered.4. A non-Kosher-for-Pesach potmay also be used for the purposeof kashering, provided that it is thoroughlyclean and has not beenused for twenty-four (24) hours.However, the custom is to make thepot Kosher-for-Pesach before usingit for kashering. This can be accomplishedby cleaning the pot, leavingit dormant for twenty-four (24)hours, filling the pot completely withwater, waiting until the water comesto a rolling boil, and putting in a hotstone or brick which has beenheated on another burner. The hotrock will cause the water to bubblemore furiously and run over the topridge of the pot on all sides at onetime. The pot is now kashered.STEP #2: Cleaning for PesachAlthough the official search forchametz is performed on Thursdaynight, April 17 this year (see Step#4 below), we all begin cleaningwell before then.————————————-* If a caustic type of oven cleaner(such as Easy-Off) was used toclean the oven and some stubbornspots remain after the causticcleaner has been applied a secondtime with similar results, the remaining spots may be disregarded.** Since caustic or abrasive ovencleaners (e.g., Easy-Off) cannot beused without destroying the continuous-clean properties of the oven, anon-abrasive, non-caustic, cleanermust be used. Grease spots willusually disappear if the top layer ofgrease is cleaned with Fantasticand a nylon brush. The ovenshould then be turned to 450 o F foran hour so that the continuouscleanmechanism can work.*** If it is absolutely necessary to usethe microwave during Pesach, onemay line the inner walls with cardboard and then use it.Page 19

Where to clean: Cleaning shouldextend to every place into whichchametz is brought (including allrooms into which chametz isbrought even periodically), pocketsin clothing, book bags and briefcases,pocketbooks, tallit bags, underand behind furniture, and underand between furniture cushions.Heavy appliances which are notmoved during the year, such asstoves and refrigerators, need notbe moved in order to clean awaychametz under them. Special careshould be taken if little children liveon the premises, since they tend tobring food everywhere. Anychametz one owns which is locatedat one’s workplace or in one’s carmust be either destroyed or sold.Note that the goal is to clean awaypieces of chametz of significant size(larger than an olive’s worth); whileany chametz you find should bedestroyed, there is no need tosearch for crumbs.Non-“Pesachdik” dishes: Dishesand utensils should be cleaned andstored away in such a manner thatthey cannot be accidentally usedduring Pesach. It is good to tape ortie shut cabinets that contain thingsyou cannot use.STEP #3: Fast of the First-BornOn Erev Pesach, first born malesfast to commemorate having beensaved from the last and most terribleof the ten plagues of Egypt.Since Erev Pesach falls out onShabbat this year, the fast ispushed back to Thursday, April17. Halachah provides, however,that if a bechor attends a celebrationsuch as a siyyum (a meal followingthe completion of a Talmudictractate), he is exempted from thisfast. As such, a siyyum will takeplace at The Jewish Center Thursday,April 17 at 7:50AM, betweenthe two Shacharit minyanim.STEP #4: The Search forChametzTime: The usual time for bedikatchametz (searching for chametz) isthe night before the Seder night.This year, when Erev Pesach fallsout on Shabbat, bedikat chametztakes place Thursday night, April17th after 8:20PM.Ground rules: When the time for thebedikah arrives, one should beginimmediately, deferring eating andother activities until after thesearch. The search itself is begunwith the brachah (p. 654 in theArtscroll siddur), recited by an adulton behalf of all of those participatingin the search. Although theblessing mentions destroying thechametz rather than searching forit, it is appropriate at this point becausesearching for the chametz isthe first step in its destruction.Those who will be leaving the areabefore Thursday night and returningat some point on Pesach shouldconduct the search on their lastevening home, but without thebrachah. One who will not be homeat all for Pesach and is selling all ofhis or her chametz should speak toRabbi Levine about conducting thesearch for chametz. The search isconducted silently, other than conversationrelevant to the search.Lighting: Although bedikat chametzis traditionally done by the light of acandle in a dark room, one may usea flashlight to assist in the search.Ten Pieces of Chametz: There is along standing custom to distributeten pieces of chametz to be foundduring the search.“But I’ve been cleaning for weeks!”:One must perform a serious searchfor chametz even if one has previouslycleaned one’s house and believesthat there is no furtherchametz. This search should coverall of the places into which chametzmay have been introduced (seeabove, “Where to clean”). Chametzyou intend to sell: see below under“The Sale of Chametz.”Bittul: At the conclusion of thesearch, all of the chametz is placedin a known location, and a declaration(“Bittul”) is made annulling allchametz which remains hidden. Bythis declaration, we relinquish ownershipover the chametz overlookedin the search and state that we considerit worthless. Because thisdeclaration is a legal declaration, itis valid only if one understandswhat one is saying. If one does notunderstand the Aramaic version(“Kol Chamira”), one should certainlyrecite the English version(“Any chametz or leaven which is inmy possession which I have notseen, have not removed or destroyed,and of which I am unaware,should hereby become nulland ownerless as the dust of theEarth”).STEP #5: The Sale of ChametzIf you own chametz which you prefernot to destroy, you may authorizeRabbi Levine to sell these itemsto a non-Jew for you. Please notethat the chametz is not sold to theRabbi; one is merely authorizingthe Rabbi to sell it for him.Chametz which you will be sellingshould be placed in specific locationsand sealed off with string,tape, or a lock and a sign indicatingthat chametz is present there.After Pesach, please allow onehour for the Rabbi to arrange there-purchase of your chametz foryou before you begin to use it.Please take special care to discussthe sale with Rabbi Levine if youwill be in a different time zone forPesach.Times the Rabbis are available forauthorizing the sale of Chametz:After Shacharit and Minchah/Maariv Minyanim from April 6 toApril 16; Sunday, April 13:9:00AM—12:00PM; Monday, April14, Tuesday, April 15 andWednesday, April 16: 7:45PM—9:15PM; office hours.Page 20

STEP #6: Burning the ChametzChametz is burned on Erev Pesachat a specific time during the midmorning.This year, we burn thechametz on Friday morning, April18 before 11:47AM. Chametz whichis necessary for Friday night andShabbat morning meals should beplaced in a disposable containeraway from all Pesach food. Althoughchametz may be purchased andeaten all day Friday, the custom is tosell and burn the chametz before thefinal time to burn the chametz hadthis day been Erev Pesach (end of5th halachic hour of the day), thisyear at 11:47AM.You may bring your chametz to TheJewish Center on Friday morning tobe burned.STEP #7: Preparations for theSederThe shankbone, or “zero’a,” is asmall piece of roasted meat, placedon the Seder plate to commemoratethe Paschal sacrifice.The roasted egg, also placed on theSeder plate, commemorates theChagigah sacrifice which was offeredon Pesach.The charoset, usually composed ofground apples, pears, cinnamon andred wine, is placed on the Sederplate in commemoration of the mortarwith which our ancestors wereforced to construct buildings inEgypt.Also on the Seder plate should bethe maror, the bitter vegetable. Themost common choices are romainel e t t u c e a n d h o r s e r a d i s h(unsweetened). Romaine lettucemust be washed and examinedcarefully for insects. (Take care notto soak the vegetable used for marorfor 24 hours, since this would compromiseits sharpness).Note: This year, these items mustbe prepared on Friday, April 18, asErev Pesach falls out on Shabbatand making such preparations isprohibited on Shabbat.STEP #8: Erev Pesach on ShabbatThis year, when Erev Pesach fallson Shabbat, the routine to which weare all accustomed becomes significantlymodified.Friday evening and Shabbat day:Except for Hamotzi, all meals shouldbe eaten on kosher for Pesach utensils.These utensils should not bebrought to the table until after all thecrumbs are cleared away. Alternatively,one may use disposable utensils.The procedure for Hamotzi for allShabbat meals is as follows: Usesmall rolls for Lechem Mishnah(there are fewer crumbs with freshrolls). Lechem Mishnah should beplaced on tissues on the table, takingcare that nothing that is kosherfor Pesach and that you wish to retainshould be on the table with therolls.All the rolls should be eaten carefullyover tissues, so that any remainingcrumbs can be wrapped in the tissuesand flushed. The table shouldthen be cleared of all chametz. Alldisposable items (e.g. plastic tablecloth,plates etc.) used with chametzshould be discarded in a trash can.The rest of the kosher for Pesachmeal should be served on Passoveror disposable dishes. For childrenwho may leave crumbs, egg matzahmay be substituted. Because thebrachah on egg matzah is a matterof dispute, adults should use rolls forlechem mishnah. After makingHamotzi and eating a k’zayit of theroll, adults may eat egg matzah untilthe last time to eat chametz. OnShabbat Erev Pesach regular matzahmay not be eaten by anyoneexcept children under six.If one is concerned with eating anybread inside, one may eat outsideon the porch or the backyard (if it ispermissible to carry there). ReciteHamotzi, eat the rolls, then sweepthe crumbs off the table to theground. One may not sweep thecrumbs into the wind. One may finishthe meal inside. Birkat Hamazonshould ideally be recited where thebread was eaten.Shacharit on Shabbat morningshould be scheduled earlier thanusual, this year at 8:30AM, becauseone must recite Hamotzi on lechemmishnah and follow the above procedurebefore the final time to eatchametz (10:39AM). After disposingof all chametz, one must recite thesame formula that is usually saidwhen burning the chametz. Thismust be done before the final time tonullify chametz. It is recited even if itwas already recited by mistake onFriday at the time of nullification ofthe chametz. One may continue hiskosher for Pesach meal and reciteBirkat Hamazon after these times.During seudah shlishit on an ordinaryShabbat one must have lechemmishnah and ideally eat the equivalentof the volume of an egg of breadafter the time of Minchah Gedolah(1/2 halachic hour after midday). Onthis Shabbat, one may not eat breador matzah at this time. The solutionto this problem is to eat other fillingfoods during the afternoon such asfish, meat, fruit or potato starch cakeany time between Minchah Gedolah(1:28PM) and sunset. However, ifone eats these foods after the beginningof the tenth hour, one should beespecially careful not eat too muchand thereby curb his appetite at theSeder. For those who follow the customof eating gebrokts (matzahsoaked in liquids or baked withthem) on Pesach, products containingmatzah meal that were cooked(e.g. matzah balls) may be eaten ifthey are consumed before the 10thhour of the day. Baked matzah mealproducts, including cakes, may notbe eaten all day.If time permits, it is preferable to also"split the morning meal" in the followingmanner: Recite Hamotzi andeat rolls, recite Birkat Hamazon andtake a walk outside. Then, wash forseudah shlishit and recite Hamotzi.One must be careful to finish thebread and dispose of the crumbs bythe times indicated above. If onedoes this, one should still eat somethingafter Minchah Gedolah as describedabove. Note that this year,when Pesach occurs after thechange to Daylight Savings Time,Page 21

there is more time to accomplishthis.Motzei Shabbat and the Seder:All preparation for Yom Tov and theSeder may not begin until Shabbat isover (tzeit hakochavim), this year at8:23PM. As previously indicated,some preparations should be donebefore Shabbat. If possible, an ideato expedite the commencement ofthe Seder is to set the Seder tablebefore Shabbat and eat in thekitchen on Shabbat.Kiddush and havdalah are recitedtogether at the Seder as printed inthe Hagaddah. One should reciteusing the Yom Tov בורא מא ור י האשcandles, putting them together sideby side while upright. They shouldnot be tilted to touch each other. Alternatively,one may recite thebrachah using a non-frosted incandescentlight bulb which was turnedon before Shabbat (or was turned onby a timer set before Shabbat).At the Seder there is one change toאשר the Hagaddah. In the brachah ofprior to the second cup of גאלנ ומן wine we reverse the order and say(instead of theopposite order). This is due to thechange in the order of sacrifices thatwere brought when Pesach occurredon Motzei Shabbat.הפסחים ומ ן הזבח יםSTEP #9: After Pesach:Using Chametz you have sold,shoppingChametz owned by a Jew duringPesach may not be eaten by a Jeweven after Pesach. Care must thereforebe taken after Pesach to purchasechametz with this issue inview. Stores owned by non-Jewspresent no problem; products instores owned by Jews may be pur-chased if the proprietor sells thechametz for Pesach, or once enoughtime has passed that the itemsowned over Pesach have been purchasedby other customers and havebeen replaced by new products fromthe store’s suppliers.STEP #10: Next Pesach FallsOut…Wednesday, April 8, 2009L’shanah ha ba’ah b’Yerushalayim!Pesach Perspectives—Mrs. Elana Stein HainPesach is a celebration of a season of redemption. Andperhaps the many synonyms that we have for the notion ofsalvation emphasize this overwhelming sense- ,” removed,” “saved,”“redeemed,” “took,” and “brought.”והוצ אתי- והצל תי,‏ וגאל תי,‏ ולקחת י,‏ ו הבאתיBut there are two words in particular that deserve furtheramplification. On the second cup of wine at the Seder, wethank God for “geulateinu” and “pedut nafsheinu,” literallyrendered, “our redemption” and “the redemption of oursouls.” Why the repetitive clause?While there are many traditional answers to this question(e.g., based on popular usage, the Maharal of Pragueclaims that geulah refers to being saved from a situation,whereas pedut refers to a change within the person him orherself), I recently came across a rather modern suggestionwhich really strikes a chord.Ma’ot ChittimProfessor David Daube (formerly of UC Berkley) suggeststhat a close reading of Tanach hints that in fact geulah isthe deeper terminology. Pedut or pidyon denotes rescuefrom peril- as in Devarim 7:8, where the emphasis is onleaving slavery and being freed from the rule of Pharoah.Geulah, on the other hand, implies a return home, back toone’s family- for example, in Vayikra 25:48, the term geulahis used when a family member is charged with buyingback a relative who has been sold into slavery due to poverty.Thus, with regards to Pesach, we thank God not only forsaving us from a desperate situation, from the ills and fromthe dangers of persecution, but moreover, for our geulah,for returning us to Divine protection, for rescuing us andwelcoming us as one would a member of one’s own family.The Exodus marks a termination of our being wherewe don’t belong, as well as a return to our rightful home.Help us help others enjoy and findmeaning in the Passover holiday.Help our needy Jewish brothers andsisters observe Passover with dignity,in their homes by fulfilling themission of Ma’ot Chittim, “money forwheat” by sending in a generousdonation.Each year, thousands of poor NewYork City Jews apply to the JointPassover Association for some financialassistance for the upcomingholiday.Because of your interest and generosity,we have been able to sendmonetary stipends to ALL eligibleapplicants for the past two years.Your donation will also help us distributeeducational materials to manyof our applicants who have little, ifany, Jewish education and need tofeel a connection to New York’s JewishCommunity. In addition, our applicationprocess gives us the opportunityto provide referral service, asneeded, to appropriate agencies thatoffer other services.Please send your checks to TheJewish Center, earmarked JointPassover Association. Page 22

Sale of Chametz FormOne way to avoid the prohibition of owning chametz on Pesach is to sell it to a non-Jew. It is customary toappoint the Rabbi as one’s agent to transact this sale. You may use this form to appoint Rabbi Levine youragent. Since ideally, one should appoint one’s agent directly, it is best to give this form to the Rabbi personally,or to see personally Rabbis Levine or Rackovsky. Rabbi Levine or Rabbi Rackovsky will be available atthe shul at the following times: After Shacharit and Minchah/Maariv Minyanim from April 6 to April 16; Sunday, April13: 9:00AM—12:00PM; Monday, April 14, Tuesday, April 15 and Wednesday, April 16: 7:45PM—9:15PM; office hours.If it is impossible for you to see either of the rabbis personally, please fill out the form below and make sure itreaches the synagogue office by Wednesday, 4/16. If, by Wednesday 4/16, you do not receive phone confirmationof our receipt of this form, please call the office.The sale of chametz is a legal transaction in which the buyer becomes the full owner of the chametz. For thesale to be considered a serious transaction, the buyer must be able to have access to his goods. If you aregoing away for Pesach, please indicate where your keys can be found (e.g., doorman, super) in the form.Power of AttorneyI, the undersigned, fully empower and permit Rabbi Yosie Levine to act in my place and stead and onmy behalf to sell all chametz possessed by me knowingly or unknowingly, as defined by Torah and Rabbiniclaw, and to lease all places in which chametz owned by me may be found, especially at:Address: ________________________________________________ Apt. #: ________________City: _______________________________________ Tel.: _______________________________and (Second address, if applicable)Address: ________________________________________________ Apt. #: ________________City: _______________________________________ Tel.: ______________________________Printed Name: ___________________________________________________________________________________________Signature: ____________________________________________________________________________□ Please check here if you will be in Israel, Europe or the Far East for Pesach.□ If you will be away for all of Pesach, please check here and complete the following:The keys to my home can be found with:Name: __________________________________________________________________________________________________Address: ____________________________________________________________________________ Apt. #: ______________City: ______________________________________________ Tel.: __________________________________________________Many follow the custom of making a donation at this time, which will be distributed to theneedy. Please make checks payable to the Rabbi Dr. Leo Jung Memorial Fund.

Save the DateThe Jewish Center Annual DinnerMonday, June 23, 2008The Museum of Jewish HeritageGuests of Honor– Lily & Joseph KaplanRabbi Dr. Leo Jung Memorial Award– Eve & Marc KarstaedtCommunity Service Award– Esther HollanderTHE JEWISH C ENTER131 West 86th StreetNew York, NY 10024Phone: 212.724.2700Fax: 212.724.5629The Modern Orthodox Center forJewish Life and LearningThe Jewish Center, a cornerstone ofModern Orthodox Jewish Life on theUpper West Side, inspires its membersand embraces the broader Jewishcommunity through vibrant prayer,serious Torah study, spiritual inquiry,charitable endeavors, appreciation ofworld culture and an abiding commitmentto the State of Israel.We look forward to seeing you atThe Jewish Center.Visit us On-linewww.jewishcenter.org