Center Sprit Magazine Pesach 2024

BLOOD LIBEL THROUGHOUT HISTORY PAGE 36

PESACH MEAT RECIPES PAGE 96

EDITOR'S DESK

HELLO ALL!

It’s that time of year again!

Cleaning, shopping, organizing, menu planning, and then shopping and cleaning again…

For some of us, the above skills and tasks come supernaturally (share your tips with us please!) but for the majority of the frum population, merely the sound of Pesach creates mild to major panic.

The cleaning, the cooking, the turning over of the kitchen, and did I mention shopping? Matching clothes for all the kiddos in stores so packed you would think the clothes are free, 2+ hour wait times in the shoe stores… and the grocery! If you're lucky to get a shopping cart, you scored!

That was me a few years ago… until it wasn’t. As a working mom, I need to do my job, and I try to do it well. Deadlines in my kitchen are no less stressful than the deadline for this editor’s letter. Some of you may be familiar with the 1950’s song “Que sera sera… whatever will be will be.” That song is how I roll! Faith is an acronym for "forward all issues to Hashem", and I know that after I did my best, I trust that Hashem will help me deliver. If this magazine reaches you before Pesach, and my chicken soup is cooked, I’ll know that I did well, and if it didn’t, at least I know I tried, and I certainly won’t stress!

In case you’re wondering, the residents of Boro Park Center are not off the hook! When it comes to preparations for Pesach, there is a lot going on, and everyone is involved. From matzah baking workshops, to seder plate crafting, our recreation team doesn’t rest until everyone is ready for this joyous Yom Tov. Our Rav, Rabbi Waijsfeld, leads a beautiful seder accompanied by divrei Torah

and zemiros. Our photo spread will give you a tiny glimpse of the fun events at BPC leading up to this highly anticipated Yom Tov.

When planning for the content of this issue, I try to combine my passion for Torah, history, and health to present you with an informative and enjoyable publication. From the article about mystical creatures in the Torah, to the truth behind organic goodness, as well as the delicious recipes and cleaning tips and everything in between, there is something in here for everyone!

As much as I tried to keep this issue light, in spite of the trying times Klal Yisroel is currently experiencing, I included an extensive and wellresearched article about blood libels. What started out centuries ago as an actual blood libel, evolved into modern-day accusations and gaslighting that the world has not experienced in decades. As frightening as it may be, we know that H’KBH is our loving father, and although we have been persecuted and continue to be persecuted, we come out stronger and undefeated. As we recite Vehi she’amdah let us remember, “Ela shebachol dor v’dor omdim aleinu lechalosainu.. v’Hakodosh Baruch Hu matzileinu miyadam. In every generation they tried to destroy us, and Hashem in His infinite mercy saved us from their hands.”

May this Pesach, the Zman Geulah, be the one that we finally get to witness the coming of Mashiach, Amein!

Raizy Pavlov

DIRECTOR OF RECREATION

At Boro Park Center, we practice a completely home-based approach to out-of-home rehabilitation and nursing care. Home means family, and our Center was founded on the idea that residents and their families should never be far apart. Come on in, Live HappyTM, and enjoy an environment made possible by compassionate caregivers, therapy specialists, and most importantly, friends and family. OUR MISSION:

Project by:

Your comments and feedback are important to us so that we can continue to serve you as best as possible. Please email your comments to rpavlov@boroparkcenter.net

PESACH: HONORING THE ELDERLY AND PASSING DOWN MINHAGIM TO OUR CHILDREN

In the midst of the joyous celebration of Pesach, we are reminded not only of our liberation from bondage but also of the importance of honoring the elderly and sick within our community. The yom tov of Pesach serves as a poignant reminder of the intergenerational bond that connects us to our past, our present, and our future.

One of the central themes of Pesach is the concept of passing down our minhagim (traditions) from one generation to the next. As we gather around the Seder table each year, we recount the story of our exodus from Mitzrayim, following the mitzvah to retell the story to our children as if we ourselves experienced it. This act of passing down our collective memory ensures that the values and lessons of our ancestors continue to guide and inspire us.

Central to this transmission of tradition is the role of the elderly within our community. The wisdom and experience they possess are invaluable resources, offering us insight into our history and providing a connection to our roots. In honoring the elderly, we not only show gratitude for their contributions but also acknowledge our debt to them for preserving our heritage through their teachings and example.

The concept of honoring the elderly is deeply embedded in Jewish tradition. The Torah commands us, "You shall rise before the aged and show deference to the old" (Vayikra 19:32). This mitzvah extends beyond mere respect; it encompasses a recognition of the unique perspective and wisdom that come with age. By honoring the elderly, we affirm the value of their life experience and ensure that their voices are heard and respected within our community.

Moreover, honoring the elderly is not just a matter of fulfilling a commandment; it is a reflection of our

commitment to the principles of compassion and empathy. As we celebrate our freedom on Pesach, we are reminded of the struggles and sacrifices of those who came before us. Just as our ancestors endured hardship for the sake of future generations, so too do the elderly continue to enrich our lives with their wisdom and guidance.

The residents of Boro Park Center are the center and the foundation of our facility. Our endearing staff connect and appreciate the value they bring to our rehab center. On this Pesach we say thank you for allowing us to care for you as you teach and guide us as to what our priorities should be.

In our fast-paced, modern world, it is easy to overlook the importance of honoring the elderly and valuing their contributions. However, Pesach serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring significance of this principle. As we gather with our loved ones to celebrate the festival of freedom, let us take the time to honor and cherish the elderly among us. Let us listen to their stories, learn from their experiences, and express our gratitude for the invaluable role they play in preserving our heritage and shaping our future. In doing so, we not only fulfill a commandment but also strengthen the bonds that unite us as a community. May this Pesach be a time of reflection, gratitude, and renewal, as we recommit ourselves to the timeless values of honoring the elderly and passing down our cherished traditions for generations to come. Chag Sameach and gut yuntiff!

David Greenberg, LNHA, MPA

Administrator

THE SACRED LINK: KORBAN PESACH AND CARING FOR THE ELDERLY

One of the central themes of the Pesach Seder is the Korban Pesach (Pesach sacrifice). We spend time discussing Pesach, Matzah and Marror throughout the night. Since we do not have the actual Korban Pesach today, we delve into the rituals surrounding the Korban, and we uncover profound lessons that extend far beyond the boundaries of ancient practices. Among the various instructions and symbolism lies a deeply rooted connection between the act of offering the Korban Pesach and the imperative to care for the elderly within our communities.

The Korban Pesach, was a central element of Benei Yisroel's observance during their exodus from Mitzrayim. Families would select a lamb, care for it for several days, and then slaughter it on Erev Pesach. The blood was placed on the doorposts as a sign of protection, and the meat was roasted and eaten by the family in a ritual meal.

At first glance, the connection between this ancient ritual and caring for the elderly may not be immediately apparent. However, a deeper exploration reveals compelling parallels.

1. The Importance of Sacrifice: The Korban Pesach required sacrifice. Families had to select and care for a lamb, an act that demanded time, resources, and dedication. Similarly, caring for the elderly often involves sacrifice – sacrificing personal time, career aspirations, and sometimes financial stability. It requires a willingness to put the needs of others above our own, echoing the spirit of sacrifice inherent in the Pesach offering.

2. Protection and Shelter: Just as the blood of the Korban Pesach served as a sign of protection for Benei Yisroel, our care for the elderly can be a shield against the vulnerabilities they face. In a world where the elderly are often marginalized or neglected, our support and companionship can provide a vital form of protection, offering them safety and security in their later years.

3. Passing Down Tradition: The Korban Pesach was not merely a ritual act; it was a means of

transmitting sipur Yitziyas Mitzrayim (the story of the Exodus) from one generation to the next. Similarly, our interactions with the elderly carry the weight of tradition and history. They are repositories of wisdom and experience, holding within them the narratives of past generations. By engaging with them, we honor their stories and ensure that their legacy endures.

4. Inclusion and Unity: The Korban Pesach was a communal affair, with families coming together to partake in the ritual meal. Likewise, our care for the elderly should be a communal endeavor. It is through collective action and solidarity that we create inclusive communities where the elderly are valued and supported.

5. Gratitude and Remembrance: Finally, the Korban Pesach was an expression of gratitude to HKBH for deliverance from slavery. In a similar vein, caring for the elderly is an act of gratitude for the contributions they have made to society. It is a way of honoring their legacy and ensuring that they are remembered and cherished in their later years.

In essence, the connection between the Korban Pesach and caring for the elderly lies in their shared values of sacrifice, protection, tradition, unity, and gratitude. As we reflect on the lessons of the Korban Pesach, let us be reminded of our duty to honor and care for the elderly among us, recognizing them as pillars of our communities and repositories of our collective memory. On this very special holiday of Pesach let us recognize the elderly in our communities and here in Boro Park Center. They are the backbone of our society and the connectors to future generations.

Jason Zimmerman, DO, FACEP

Medical Director

CELEBRATING PESACH WITH TRUE

תורח

Dear Residents, Families, and Community,

As Pesach swiftly approaches, I am filled with a profound sense of gratitude and anticipation. I wish to extend my deepest, heartfelt wishes to each of you. Pesach isn't just a time to cherish our bonds with family; it's a celebration of our collective journey from bondage to the exhilarating embrace of freedom. It offers a unique opportunity for all of us, whether nestled in the comfort of our home here, your homes, or while visiting cherished loved ones, to truly feel the warmth and illumination of our cherished תורח.

This year, let's wholeheartedly embrace the essence and spirit of Pesach. As we come together, either physically or in spirit, to recount the stirring story of םירצמ תאיצי, let us remember that תא תוארל בייח רודו רוד לכב רמאנש םירצממ אצי אוה וליאכ ומצע רובעב רמאל אוהה םויב ךנבל תדגהו

םירצממ יתאצב יל ׳ה השע הז

The profound words, "In every generation, one must see oneself as if they personally had come out of Egypt," serve as a powerful reminder that תורח and the promise of renewal are within reach for

every one of us, beckoning with the promise of liberation and new beginnings.

As we ceremonially break the Matzah during ץחי, let it not only symbolize the breaking free from the physical and spiritual constraints that bind us but also inspire us to forge ahead towards a future brimming with health, hope, and a spirit rejuvenated with purpose and determination.

In this reflective and joyous time, my heart goes out in appreciation to our incredible staff. Your unwavering dedication, care, and warmth have woven a fabric of community where each member, resident, and visitor feels genuinely part of a larger, loving family. This profound sense of unity and shared purpose is the very essence of our community, elevating our celebrations and our everyday interactions to something truly special. I am eternally grateful to each of you for instilling such a powerful sense of family and togetherness within us all, creating an atmosphere where every individual feels valued, supported, and integral to our collective story.

Furthermore, as we reflect on the themes of freedom and liberation

inherent to Pesach, let us also underscore the paramount importance of physical health and independence. These essential aspects are the cornerstone of experiencing true freedom, empowering us to chase our dreams and live life to its fullest potential. In this spirit, may we continue to uplift and support one another in attaining and preserving these vital components of our freedom, reinforcing the connection between our physical well-being and our overarching theme of liberation and renewal this Pesach.

May this Pesach illuminate your hearts with unbridled joy and infuse your lives with light. As we draw closer to Hashem, may we revel in the freedoms that we hold dear, enveloped by the love of family, the camaraderie of friends, and the strength of our community.

Wishing you and your loved ones a Pesach that overflows with health, happiness, unity, and the deeply felt sense of family that binds us all together in spirit and purpose.

Rav of Boro Park Center תכרבב חמשו רשכ

Rabbi Aaron Wajsfeld

MONDAY, APRIL 22ND

ZMANIM PESACH 2024

Shacharis ...9:00 AM

followed by Siyum Bochurim

Latest time for Chometz 10:38 AM

Burning Chometz .11:46 AM

Candle Lighting ...7:25 PM

Mincha ...7:20 PM followed by Maariv

First Seder ...8:00 PM

TUESDAY, APRIL 23RD

Pesach

Shacharis ...9:00 AM

Mincha ....7:20 PM

followed by Maariv

Second Seder ...8:00 PM

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 24TH

Pesach

Shacharis ...9:00 AM

Mincha ...8:00 PM

Maariv ...8:50 PM

Havdalah ...8:58 PM

THURSDAY, APRIL 25TH

Chol Hamoed

Same schedule as rest of year

FRIDAY APRIL 26TH

Erev Shabbos Chol Hamoed

Candle lighting ....7:29 PM

Mincha ........7:15 PM followed by Kabbolas Shabbos and Maariv

SHABBOS CHOL HAMOED APRIL 27TH

Shacharis ......9:00 AM

Mincha ......8:00 PM

Maariv ......8:50 PM

Havdalah .......9:01 PM

SUNDAY APRIL 28TH

Erev Shevii Shel Pesach

Mincha .......7:30 PM followed by Maariv

Candle lighting .......7:31 PM

MONDAY APRIL 29TH

Shevii Shel Pesach

Shacharis ......9:00 AM

Mincha .......7:30 PM

Maariv ......7:50 PM

Candle lighting after (not before) ......8:36 PM

TUESDAY APRIL 30TH

Acharon Shel Pesach

Shacharis ......9:00 AM

Yizkor ....10:30 AM

Mincha .......8:10 PM

Maariv .................................................................8:55 PM

Havdalah ............................................................9:04 PM

Torah& Halacha

1

The natural, supernatural and the counter natural

2

Halachos of Pesach

3

Fascinating creatures in the Torah

4

Checking vegetables for insects

5

Fruit & vegetable inspection chart

AND THE THE

NATURAL, SUPERNATURAL COUNTER NATURAL

By: Rabbi Yitzchok Dovid Schwartz Zt"l

“Therefore, say to the Bnei Yisrael ‘I am Hashem. I will extricate you from the burdens of Egypt and free you from their slavery. I will redeem you with a demonstration of My power and with great acts of judgment.’”

-Shemos 6:6

“I will harden Pharaoh’s heart and thus will produce the opportunities to display many miraculous wonders and signs in Egypt.”

-Shemos 7:5

At the end of Parshas Bo, in validating the centrality of the mitzvos that serve as reminder of Yetzias Mitzrayim, the Ramban famously explains that the makkos were meant to pierce the veil that conceals Hashem. The strands of which that veil is woven are the Laws of Nature. All of the makkos were openly miraculous, flouting numerous laws of nature in the most overt way.

The Maharal and the Chidushei HaRim explain that the 10 makkos were the bridge between the asara ma’amoros shebahem nivra haolam- the 10 pronouncements through which the world was created, and the Aseres Hadibros-the 10 Commandments through which the Torah was revealed. A world that does not perceive Hashem as the Creator is unready to accept Hashem as the Divine Legislator. By laying bare the existence of a Force that superseded Nature, that could utterly manipulate Nature and that could bend Nature to its supernatural will, the makkos removed any of the lingering doubts about the existence of Hashem the Creator and proved the truth of numerous principles of our faith.

Thus understood, one could jump to the erroneous conclusion that the Hashem-concealing, illusion-ofindependence-projecting, natural order is constantly at odds with Hashem. In fact, nature is the regular and consistent expression of the Divine Will. Why and when the Divine Will chooses to superimpose the hanhagah nisis- the miraculous management of the cosmos upon and, apparently, against the hanhagah tiv’is- the natural management of the cosmos, is something that only the Divine Mind knows.

In this same vein, many of us striving to make good choices and grow spiritually regard our own human nature as obstacles. We are conditioned to fight our natural impulses. We associate them with our yetzer hara. But the pasuk says,

“EVERYTHING THAT HASHEM HAS MADE IS FOR HIS OWN SAKE.”

(Mishlei 16:4)

That is to say for His greater Glory. All of the works of creation are expressions of the Divine Will.

When inanimate objects and living beings behave according to the laws of nature, they are fulfilling the will of Hashem. The great challenge with things behaving “naturally” is that they appear to be on autopilot. The Divine Will that created the Laws of Nature and that continues to direct natural law often becomes obscured by natural processes. This is why Torah numerologists have pointed out that “Elokim” has the same gematria as “hateva”-the Nature (86) and why Torah etymologists teach that the root of the word Olam-world, is he’elam-concealment.

When Rabi Pinchos ben Yair traveled to fulfill the mitzva of pidyon sh’vuyim, he reached the banks of the Ginai River and could go no further. He commanded

the river waters to interrupt their flow so that he could cross through the riverbed and proceed on his mission of mercy. The river responded “You go to do the Will of your Creator and I go to do the Will of my Creator.

There is only a chance that you will fulfill the Creator’s Will but, so long as I flow, I’m most definitely fulfilling the Creator’s Will. If so, why should I cease my flowing so that you can get going?” (Chulin 7A).

Ultimately the river split for Rabbi Pinchos ben Yair and he accomplished his mission of pidyon sh’vuyim. But the “conversation” between him and the river is significant in that it establishes beyond a shadow of a doubt that even inanimate things functioning according to the Laws of Nature are doing the will of Hashem. It belies the philosophy that Nature opposes Hashem. Nature is no more Hashem’s enemy than the veil is the face’s adversary.

Hashem brought the cosmos into being through the “10 pronouncements”. All that exists in the cosmos, and the way in which they function, are expressions of Hashem’s will. We define a mitzvah as a thought, word or act having a positive and ethical charge. What makes them “good” or positive is that they are consistent with, and fulfillments of, Hashem’s will. As such, it follows that every one of Hashem’s non-free-will-endowed creatures that behave according to natural law is, in a sense, performing mitzvos.

Rav Tzadok, the Lubliner Kohen, teaches that just as in the macrocosm, a river running downstream is “running to do with the Will of its Creator” so too, in the microcosm known as man, all the natural impulses induce man to “run to do the Will of his Creator.” When a man thirsts, it is Hashem’s will that he hydrate himself. When a man hungers, it is Hashem’s will that he ingest nutrition. When a man grows fatigued it is Hashem’s will that he sleep. When human acts of eating, drinking, and sleeping are done as responses to the dictates of human nature, they too are mitzvos. When they are indulged in excessively, going beyond the dictates of nature, they are not, and they cross the boundary into negativity.

Over the past decade Perek Shira has gained enormous popularity. This concept is the deeper meaning of Perek Shira. When we hear a frog croaking cacophonously, we run for a pair of earplugs. We hardly consider this croaking to be the music of a symphony orchestra. But when the frog tells King Dovid that “I sing Hashem’s praises day and night” (Zohar Pinchos 222:B) what it really means to say is that just acting naturally and croaking, in accordance with the nature endowed in the frog by its Creator, is sweet music, a “singing of the Divine praise.”

“… [The frogs will be] in the homes of your officials and the people, even in your ovens and in the kneading bowls.” -Shemos 7:28

“Why did Chananiah, Mishael and Azariah deliver themselves to the fiery furnace, for kiddush Hashem? They argued a kal v’chomer to themselves: If frogs, [of the second plague] which are not commanded concerning kiddush Hashem yet it is written of them, “and they shall come up and go into your house . . . and into your ovens, and into your kneading bowls.” when are the kneading bowls to be found near the oven? When the oven is hot! [Then we must certainly do so.]” -Pesachim 53B

While behaving “naturally” is the default setting for “running to do with the Will of the Creator” it is essential to remember that in some unusual times and circumstances, supernatural and contranatural behaviors are required in order to “run to do with the Will of the Creator”. The most basic instinct for all species is the survival instinct. Yet, during redemption process, when Hashem chose to superimpose the supernatural hanhaganisis upon the hanhaga tiv’is, then, as part of the second plague, the frogs threw themselves into the hot ovens' flames, contravening the survival instinct that is most primary to all creatures.

While humans are endowed with free-will and the rest of Hashem’s creatures are not, we must nevertheless learn from them and exercise our free-will choices appropriately. While choosing to

maintain our lives and responding to the dictates of our natures is often a mitzvah, making choices that are contra-natural, even to the point of mesirus nefesh and self-destruction, can be “running to do with the Will of the Creator” as well. As the pasuk says “[Hashem] Who teaches us — from the beasts of the earth, and makes us wiser — from the birds of heaven.”(Iyov 35:11)

As it goes for the macrocosm, so it goes for the microcosm. There is room for the redemptive and the supernaturally, contra-naturally miraculous within human beings as well. On Pesach, as we celebrate our capacity as Benei Chorin, free and

READY TO FOLLOW THE WILL OF HASHEM WHEREVER AND HOWEVER IT COMMANDS US.

This Dvar Torah is an excerpt from the new book From The Waters of The Shiloach: Plumbing The Depths of Toras Izhbitz, available now in Jewish bookstores and on mosaicapress.com. It is a landmark work exploring the fascinating teachings and chasidus of The Mei HaShiloach and his disciples. Rabbi Schwartz, who dedicated his life to teaching Torah and being mekarev yidden, spent the final years of his life writing this book. May this Torah be an Aliyah for his Neshama.

Halachos of PESACH

Erev Pesach is one of the busiest and most unique days of the year. With every hour comes another set of halachos. Many halachic times, including the time for searching for chometz and the latest time for eating chometz, are well known. However, many halachos of Erev Pesach are often confusing and not commonly understood. The purpose of this article is to elucidate some of the lesser-known laws of Erev Pesach.

Note: These halachos apply to Erev Pesach that occurs on a weekday. If Erev Pesach occurs on Shabbos, special halachos apply to both Friday (13th of Nissan) and Shabbos (Erev Pesach).

Chometz

1. Searching for Chometz- The opening line of Meseches Pesachim states that one should search for chometz on the night of the 14th of Nissan (i.e. the night before Pesach). This should begin immediately after nightfall (50 minutes after sunset for this application).

2. Eating Chometz- One may eat chometz until the end of the “4th halachic hour” of the day. There are different opinions regarding the calculation of the length of the day and halachic hour. Ideally, one should use the following calculation: One may eat chometz until the end of 1/3 of the “day.” For this application, the “day” begins 72 minutes before sunrise and ends approximately 50 minutes after sunset (in Baltimore and New York).

3. Burning and Selling Chometz- Chometz must be disposed of by burning or selling it before the end of the “5th halachic hour”- 5/12 of the day. Kol Chamira is recited following the burning, before the end of the 5th halachic hour. One should be aware of the following:

a. Once Kol Chamira is recited by the head of the household, no chometz may be eaten by anyone at home. For example, if the father

By: Rabbi Dovid Heber

burns the chometz and recites Kol Chamira at 8:30 am, he and his family (even if they are not at home) may no longer eat chometz. Everything must be put away by that time.

b. Be cognizant of the latest times. All times apply to chometz eaten at any location. One year, the gentile owner of a doughnut shop told the Star-K that he saw individuals eating doughnuts in their cars after the latest time for eating chometz. Also, chometz should not be burned at the last second. This is true whether one burns chometz outside his home or at a public biur chometz.

4. Chometz in the Mail- If one receives chometz in the mail or with the newspaper on Erev Pesach (after the 5th halachic hour) or on Pesach, one should not assume ownership of the item but rather leave the chometz outside. If mail is delivered through a mail slot into one’s home, he should have the intent not to acquire the chometz (i.e. not taking legal possession) and kick it or push it outside with a stick to avoid handling it. If it is still around after Pesach, he may assume ownership at that time and use it, provided that the sender is a gentile.

5. Kashering on Erev PesachIdeally, all kashering should be completed by the end of the

4th halachic hour. If one forgot to kasher before this time, he may kasher the vessel until candlelighting time on Erev Pesach with the following condition: The vessel did not come into contact with anything hot (whether Kosher L’Pesach or not) within the past 24 hours. In the event the vessel came into contact with something hot within the past 24 hours, or if one requires kashering of a chometz vessel on Pesach, a rav should be consulted.

6. Finding Chometz on Erev Pesach- There is a well known halacha that states if one finds chometz on Chol Hamoed or on Erev Pesach after the 5th hour, one should immediately burn it. On Yom Tov, one should cover the chometz (because it is muktza) and burn it after Yom Tov. This halacha applies only if he did not sell his chometz to a gentile. However, if he sells chometz to a gentile the sale includes all chometz, wherever it may be found. Therefore, if one discovers pretzels in a drawer or bagel chips in a coat pocket during Pesach, he may not burn this chometz since it belongs to the gentile to whom the rav sold the chometz. Rather, he should store the item with the “locked up” chometz sold to the gentile. On Yom Tov, one should cover it and lock it up on Chol Hamoed. It may be eaten after Pesach when the chometz is repurchased.

Eating on Erev Pesach & Preparing For the Seder

1. One may not eat even Kosher for Pesach matzoh all day Erev Pesach. This prohibition begins at dawn (72 minutes before sunrise). There are many individuals who have the custom not to eat matzoh beginning from Rosh Chodesh Nissan or even Purim. A child under the age of six may eat matzoh even on Erev Pesach.

Products containing matzoh meal that are baked (e.g. matzoh meal cake) may not be eaten all day Erev Pesach. Kosher for Pesach matzoh meal products that are cooked (e.g. knaidlach) may be eaten until the

beginning of the 10th halachic hour of the day- three halachic hours before sunset. One who does not eat gebrochts on Pesach may only eat knaidlach and other cooked matzoh meal products until the latest time for eating chometz. He may not eat baked matzoh meal products all day.

Matzoh made with fruit juice, including Kosher for Pesach egg matzohs, grape matzohs, chocolate matzohs and Pesach Tam Tams, etc. may be eaten until the end of the 4th halachic hour (same as the latest time for eating chometz). The sick or elderly who cannot eat regular matzoh and have consulted with their rav may eat Pesach egg matzohs any time on Erev Pesach and Pesach. However, even such an individual cannot fulfill the obligation of eating matzoh at the seder with these matzohs.

Meat, fish, salad, cheese, eggs, horseradish, fruits, vegetables, and potato starch cakes may be eaten until sunset. However, one should not fill up on these items so as to ensure a hearty appetite at the seder. He may drink wine or grape juice on Erev Pesach in quantities that will not affect his appetite at night.

2. All firstborn males (whether from the father or mother) must fast on Erev Pesach. A father must fast in place of his firstborn child who is between the ages of thirty days and bar mitzvah. The custom is to end the fast early by partaking in a siyum. Firstborn girls do not fast, and a mother does not fast for her first born son (under bar mitzvah when the husband is a b’chor) if her husband or son attends a siyum.

3. Preparations for the seder including roasting the z’roa meat, cooking and, roasting the egg, mixing the salt water, preparing the charoses, grating the horseradish, and all necessary b’dikas tolaim (checking lettuce for bugs), should preferably be done before Pesach as special restrictions apply to preparing these items on Yom Tov. If the first day of Pesach falls on Shabbos, the z’roa and baitzah must be prepared before Shabbos. Additional restrictions apply to the preparations of the other items on Shabbos.

4. If one has a difficult time drinking wine at the seder, one should mix the wine with grape juice and/or water. Ideally, this mixture should contain a minimum of 4% alcohol. Therefore, if the wine has 12% alcohol content, he should make a mixture consisting of 1/3 wine, 1/3 grape juice and 1/3 water (or 1/3 wine and 2/3 grape juice). He must be aware that many wines available have a lower alcohol content. Therefore, if the wine has an 8% alcohol content he should make a mixture consisting of 1/2 wine, 1/4 grape juice and 1/4 water (or 1/2 wine and 1/2 grape juice). Wine with 6% alcohol content requires 2/3 wine and 1/3 grape juice. If one prepares these mixtures with a measuring cup, it should be done before Yom

Tov. If one may become ill by drinking any wine, he may instead drink grape juice.

5. One may not say, “This meat is for Pesach,” as this may appear as if he is designating meat for the Korbon Pesach. Rather one should say, “This meat is for Yom Tov.”

Work after Chatzos

Fascinating Creatures of the Torah

The Torah is the word of Hashem, our eternal legacy of Divine Information that guides us through the generations. As the Mishna in Pirkei Avos tells us, “Hafoch Ba, Hafoch Ba D’kula Ba; turn it over and turn it over again, for everything is in it.” The Torah is a universespanning encyclopedia in which everything can be found: the most fundamental stories of humanity, the technical details of Halacha, amazing wisdom for life and everything in between. Among the many dazzling facets of the Torah is the topic of the wild and exotic creatures that appear in its pages. From Tanach to the Medrash, from the Gemara to the Rishonim, the Torah contains within it a veritable zoo of creatures that seem to defy the imagination and the boundaries of the natural world. All of these creatures are mysterious: based on the descriptions given, they cannot be categorized according to the knowledge of modern science, and it is clear that some of these creatures are related to secrets of the Torah that are beyond the comprehension of ordinary readers. However, while we may not fully understand the nature of these animals, or where and how they can be found in our world, their inclusion in the words of the Torah means they are a valuable and fascinating topic for study.

Mermaids

The Torah mentions a creature that fits the description of the classic human/fish hybrid known as a mermaid. The Gemara in Bechoros discusses the similarities between humans and something called “Dulfanim” or “Bnei Yama/Sons of the sea”. Some commentaries explain that this simply refers to dolphins. They are one of the most intelligent animals and give birth to live young, which may explain why the Gemara compares them to humans. However, Rashi explains that “Dulfanim” are sea creatures who are half-human and half fish. In other places, Rashi uses the old French word “Sierini” or as it would be called in English, a “siren”.

The Ramban in Chumash also mentions these fishy folks and says that the Pasuk describing non-kosher fish includes “Sierini”; so don’t expect to see mermaid on the menu at any heimishe restaurant! The Aruch HaShulchan uses the mermaid as proof that even if something has fins and scales, if it isn’t fully a fish then it is completely non-kosher. Other types of amphibious or sea creatures that have legs but also fins and scales would be non-kosher, just like the mermaid.

The Chida describes the power and the danger of the mermaids: they lived among rocks and other dangerous parts

of the ocean. When ships approached, the mermaids would start to sing, and that would put all the sailors to sleep. Once they were all asleep their boat would crash on the rocks and the mermaids would take over and eat everyone on board! One of the Chida’s sources for his information on mermaids is the Sefer Ha-Aruch, a classic 12th century Talmudic dictionary written By Rabbi Nosson Ben Yechiel of Rome. Rabbi Nosson writes that he heard a legend that the king of Denmark had been sailing in the Norwegian sea and had encountered a mermaid sitting on a sandbank. Rabbi Nosson once met the king and asked him if he had truly seen a mermaid. The king was silent and did not answer. The Rabbi later heard from the ministers and sailors who had been on the king’s boat that they had indeed seen a mermaid that day, but that it had become frightened and dove into the water when they called for the king to look and see it. One can infer from the words of Rabbi Yechiel that such creatures, already in his time, were thought to be extinct or mythical, and that spotting one in the wild was a big deal and worthy of a king’s attention.

Ish Hasadeh: The Man of the Field

In the book of Iyov, we are told that Iyov had a pact with the “Avnei Hasadeh”. Although this seems to translate as “the stones of the field”, the commentaries explain that this term actually refers to a creature whose ecosystem is found in the field. This beast is known in various places as Ish Hasadeh, Adnei Hasadeh, or Adnei Hasadeh. The Mishna in Keilim discusses an interesting question: does the corpse of an “Ish Hasadeh: the man of the field” create Tumah, ritual impurity, the same way that a human corpse does? It is obvious from the Mishna’s question that this is something close enough to be considered human, but not quite. How to identify this creature is a topic of huge debate. Some say it is some kind of large monkey or orangutang, while others say it is a kind of feral humanoid who lives in the wild. This could make the Ish Hasadeh a candidate to be the elusive Bigfoot, a humanoid often spotted in forests and wild remote areas by terrified hunters and woodland explorers.

One of the most fascinating approaches to understanding the Ish Hasadeh is mentioned in the Yerushlami Masechtes Kelaim. There, the Ish HaSadeh is described as half beast, half plant and humanoid in shape. It survived via an umbilical cord attached to the ground. They were ferocious and violent, attacking anyone who came near them. It would be impossible for a hunter to catch one alive; his only option would be to fire an arrow from a safe distance, severing the umbilical cord and killing the beast. The Vilna Gaon adds some fascinating details: the Ish Hasadeh were sent, along with the patch of ground that they are attached to, to terrorize the Egyptians during Makkas Arov. Also, when it says in Parshas Toldos

that Esav was a “Yodea Tzayid Ish Sadeh – A man who knew how to hunt, a man of the field” it means that Esav, alone among hunters, knew the secret of how to capture these fearsome beasts alive. Why would Esav want to capture an Ish Hasadeh, besides the honor of claiming bragging rights as the # 1 hunter? One explanation may be found in the Sefer HaChinuch. He writes that many forms of sorcery which the Torah forbids, involved using the Ish Hasadeh or its bones. Perhaps Esav had a long client list of witches and wizards who were waiting to cast their dark spells!

The Fireproof Salamander

A time-honored tradition of kids who spend their summers in the mountains is heading to the forest after a rainstorm to try to catch some salamanders. But the salamanders mentioned in the Gemara, far from being drawn to water, are actually creatures born from fire! In several places, the Gemara discusses “Salamandraya” a fireproof lizard that emerges from fires that burn for several years. The blood of these salamanders, when applied to humans, transfers this fireproof quality. This is how King Chizkiya was saved from certain death. As a child, his father wanted to sacrifice him to an idol-worshipping cult. He was thrown into a fire as part of the ritual but was immune because his mother had covered him in the blood of the fireproof salamander.

Werewolves

In the Birchas Yaakov found in Parsahas Vayechi, we are told that Binoymin is a “wolf that mauls”. According to most opinions, this is a prophetic reference to the fierce warriors of Shevet Binyomin, such as King Shaul. However, for one twelfth century commentator, this was meant to be taken very literally! Rabeinu Efraim, who was one of the Baalei

Tosfos, makes several references to humans transforming into wolves throughout his commentary on the Torah. He says that Binyomin was one of these werewolves, and that is why Yaakov was hesitant to allow the other Shevatim to take him away from the father’s home. Yaakov could control Binyomin when he transformed, with the help of doctors and medicine. But once Binyomin was on the road, his transformations would be uncontrollable, and he would assume the form of a vicious wolf, attacking everyone in his vicinity. The other travelers along the way would certainly try to kill him in selfdefense.

Rabeinu Efraim isn’t the only one who mentions werewolves. Rashi explains that the Ish HaSadeh was actually a werewolf, and other Meforshim say that some of the generation of Migdal Bavel were punished by being turned into werewolves. Others take a more naturalistic explanation of the werewolf concept. The Gemara mentions a mental illness called “gandrifus” which is translated as lycanthropy. This is a condition where the afflicted person believes themselves to be a wolf and begins to act like one. There is also the condition known as porphyria, which makes people sensitive to light and radically changes their appearance. People afflicted by these mental or physical illnesses might act or look enough like wolves to cause a widespread belief in werewolves!

of Daniel’s vision refers to Alexander the Great and his rise to dominate the ancient world; certainly, there are many other deep messages contained in the image of the onehorned goat. Is there any Torah source for the one-horned unicorn?

Unicorns & the Tachash

Besides the rhino and narwhal, there are almost no animals in nature that sport a single, central horn. Throughout the Torah, we find many references to wild and wonderful one-horned animals! In Sefer Daniel, the prophet relates a vision where he saw a one-horned goat floating above the earth, who then attacked and destroyed a two horned ram. Obviously, like all of the visions of our Neviim, the words used to describe the vision are just the tip of the iceberg, concealing great and awesome mysteries of the Torah. The Ibn Ezra says the goat

For many years, the word Re’em, which appears throughout the Torah, was translated as “unicorn” but that was a mistake made in accordance with the flawed translations found in non-Jewish sources. The Gemara explains what the Re’em is, and although it is an astonishing, mountain-sized creature, it is not said to have one horn. There best potential candidate for the position of Jewish unicorn is the Tachash. When Klal Yisroel built the Mishkan in the desert, one of the materials they used was the skin of a mysterious creature known as the Tachash. In the Gemara and Medrash, there is a great debate as to how to identify the Tachash. The Gemara in Masechtes Shabbos 28a tells us that “the Tachash that existed in the days of Moshe was a unique creature, and that the Sages did not determine whether it was a type of undomesticated animal or a type of domesticated animal. It had a single horn on its forehead, and this Tachash happened to come to Moshe for the moment while the Mishkan was being built, and he made the covering for the Mishkan from it. And from then on, the Tachash was suppressed and is no longer found.”

The Medrash Tanchuma in Parshas Terumah gives us even more fascinating info about this strange beast. Reb Yehuda said the Tachash was a large animal with a single horn in its forehead and a skin of six different colors that roamed the desert. They captured one of them and from its skin made a covering for the Aron Hakodesh. Reb Nehemiah contended that it was a miraculous creature Hashem created for that precise moment, and that it disappeared immediately thereafter from earth. That would mean that the Tachash was a once in history event, and that after its era of usage in the Mishkan, it can no longer be found. It’s interesting to note that the term “unicorn” has come to mean something unique in its time and era. Perhaps people should start using the term Tachash to refer to such unique things!

Phoenix

The phoenix is a legendary immortal bird. It does not die, but rather every thousand years it enters a fire from which it emerges as a baby bird to restart its life. The phoenix appears

many times in the Torah; when Iyov is lamenting the tragedies of his life, he says how he expected to have the lifespan of a phoenix. Why did the phoenix merit to have such Arichus Yamim? There are two explanations given, both of which take us back to the earliest stories of the Torah. According to Rashi and Rabenu Bachaye, Chava fed the fruit of the Etz Hada’as to every animal, making them all fall under the same curse of death that had been decreed on humanity. Only the noble phoenix refused to eat, guaranteeing that it would remain alive. According to the Gemara in Sanhedrin 108a, the merit of the phoenix derives from its time on the Teivah with Noach. Noach’s son Shem tells the story of how Noach went around feeding all the animals, who would scream and cry out to be fed. Noach finally noticed the phoenix, who was sitting quietly in its spot. He asked him why he had not called out to be fed, and the phoenix responded that it saw Noach was busy and didn’t want to bother him. In reward for its unassuming and considerate behavior, Noach blessed the phoenix with immortality. The phoenix teaches us the value of being patient and considerate, and it also serves as a beautiful metaphor for Klal Yisroel, the eternal nation. Although throughout our history, we have been consumed by many fires of torture and persecution, we remain eternal and

alive, just like the phoenix rises reborn from the ashes of its nest!

The Shamir

The Jews tasked with building the Beis Hamikdash faced a very big challenge: they had to cut many things to size, including the stones of the ephod and the Mizbeach, but they were told that they could not use knives or other metal tools that could cause bloodshed, as they had no place in a temple

of peace. How then could they possibly build what they needed? The answer was simple; they would use the Shamir!

The Shamir is first mentioned as one of the miraculous items created by hashem on the first Erev Shabbos. It was a worm that had the amazing ability to cut material, no matter how hard. Diamonds and steel could be split with the amazing power of the Shamir. How did the Shamir work? According to some, it would merely look at something and the item would split. According to others, the Shamir would crawl over an item, and that would cause it to split. Because of the Shamir’s amazing capacity to cut and split things, it had to be carried in a very special way so that it would not destroy the vehicle of its transportation. They would take a lead bucket and fill it with wool tufts and cooked barley, soft items that the Shamir wouldn’t split.

According to the Gemara in Gitin, getting the Shamir was no picnic either. In order to obtain the Shamir, Shlomo Hamelech embarked on a fascinating and convoluted series of adventures. They involved tricking the chicken whose job it was to guard the Shamir, capturing the king of the demons, and eventually being thrown out of his own palace to wander the country after he was thrown out of the palace by the demon.

If you’re hoping to get a Shamir to help you cut things up around the house, you’re out of luck. Unfortunately, the Gemara tells us that when the second Beis Hamikdash was destroyed, the Shamir lost all its power. Perhaps some of the ordinary, boring worms we encounter today, who couldn’t split their way out of a paper bag, are the great-great-grandchildren of the legendary Shamir. And the truth is, perhaps worms have more power than we think. Approximately two years back, researchers in the Philippines stumbled upon a worm with the remarkable ability to consume limestone. Despite limestone being relatively soft in the spectrum of rocks, the notion of a worm capable of carving through stone calls to mind the amazing powers of the Shamir.

Ziz, Levyasan, and Behemoth

Perhaps the most well-known of the monsters and creatures in the Torah are the gigantic beasts, Levyasan and the Behemoth (also known as the Shor Habor). A third, lesser-

known beast, a gigantic bird called the Ziz, completes the trifecta, giving us three gigantic animals from the air, land and water. The emphasis with these three is their massive size and enormous power. As such, they symbolize the powerful primal forces with which Hashem imbued our world.

The Ziz is typically described as a gigantic bird, sometimes portrayed as large as the sky itself. It is said to have wings so vast that their flapping can create hurricanes and storms. In some interpretations, the Ziz is believed to dwell in the highest heavens and is associated with the element of air. It is often depicted as a benevolent creature, symbolizing the awe-inspiring majesty of the natural world.

Levyasan is described as a massive sea monster, Levyasan is said to inhabit the depths of the ocean. Its appearance varies across different texts, but common descriptions include a serpent-like body, sometimes with multiple heads or horns. The Gemara in Bava Basra describes how the Levayasn causes the entire ocean to boil, and the pesukim from Iyov describe it as having a dragon-like power to emit fire and sparks. Levyasan is often depicted as a symbol of chaos and primal power, representing the untamed forces of the sea. In Sefer Yirmiyahu, it is described as a symbol of evil that will be defeated at the end of days. This is why we have numerous

references to a feast on the meat of the Levyasan and a Sukka for Tzadikim made from its skin.

Unlike the Ziz and Levyasan, Behemoth is associated with the land rather than the sea or sky. It is often described as a colossal land animal, sometimes depicted as a monstrous bull or hippopotamus. Behemoth is said to roam the earth, grazing on vegetation with its immense size and strength. In some interpretations, Behemoth represents the wild and untamed aspects of nature, embodying the raw power of the animal kingdom.

Conclusion

We do not know if we will ever see any of these animals, and perhaps for now we may not understand Hashem’s reasons for making them. However, as we always say when we stand in awe at Hashem’s creation “Ma Rabu Maasecha Hashem” Within the world of the torah, and entire fascinating menagerie of mystical creatures exist. While we may not be able to fish for the Levyasan, sail past the mermaids or see a phoenix fly, learning about them can fill us with wonder and appreciation.

Vegetables

CHECKING FOR INSECTS

What would you like for an appetizer?

The popularity of fruits, vegetables, and berries has increased in recent years due to positive scientific studies about potential health benefits from antioxidants contained in them. However, some consumers have still hesitated to plunge into the world of health out of fear of possibly consuming insects, which are strictly forbidden by the Torah. Nevertheless, kashrus agencies have responded by providing consumers with guidelines as how to handle produce and ensure that insects are avoided. The task may seem

Salad, please.

daunting at first, but it’s definitely doable. It is possible to have your veggies and eat them too!

The following are guidelines for some select items. There are manuals and guides available from kashrus agencies that provide a more comprehensive list. Please note there is no one absolute and correct way to check vegetables for bugs. There are numerous acceptable methods that have proven to be effective.

Lettuce, Open Leaf

Bibb, Bok Choy, Boston, Butter Lettuce, Chicory, Chinese Lettuce (Napa), Green Leaf, Red Leaf, Romaine, and Watercress all grow in a similar fashion. As they sprout forth from the ground, the leaves begin to open up like a flower. Toward the end of their growth, they begin to close around the stalk.

INFESTATION:

The insects most commonly found in open leaf lettuce are small green aphids or thrips. The leaves of the vegetable often camouflage these insects. The open structure of these vegetables allows insects to penetrate the entire head. Often, insects may be found between the innermost layers of leaves of an infested head. Therefore, each leaf must be washed and checked individually. The use of a light box for checking lettuce is extremely helpful. Please note: Many of these varieties feature curly leaves with many folds in which the insects tend to hide. We therefore recommend that they be washed and checked with extreme caution.

INSPECTION:

1. Cut off the lettuce base and separate the leaves from one another.

2. Soak leaves in a solution of cold water and vegetable wash. The proper amount of vegetable wash has been added when some bubbles are observed in the water. (In the absence of vegetable wash, several drops of concentrated non-scented liquid detergent may be used. However, for health reasons, care must be taken to thoroughly rinse off the soapy solution.)

3. Agitate lettuce leaves in the soapy solution.

4. Spread each leaf, taking care to expose all its curls and crevices. Using a heavy stream of water or a power hose, remove all foreign matter and soap from both sides of each leaf. Alternatively, a vegetable brush may be used on both sides of the leaf.

5. Leaves should be checked over a light box or under strong overhead lighting to verify that the washing procedure has been effective. Pay careful attention to the folds and crevices in the leaf where insects have been known to hold tightly through several washings.

Asparagus, Green

Asparagus is a spear-like vegetable approximately 6–8” long with triangle scales along the sides, culminating with an arrangement of triangular tips.

INFESTATION:

Thrips are primarily found under the triangle scales and somewhat less frequently in the tips of the asparagus.

INSPECTION:

Asparagus can be used in the following manner:

1. Shave down the floret at the asparagus tip.

2. Remove the triangle parts along the side of the asparagus. (A potato peeler is recommended.)

3. Wash thoroughly.

When prepared in this manner, special inspection is not necessary.

Herbs-Fresh -Household Use

Fresh basil, cilantro, dill, mint, oregano, parsley, rosemary, sage and thyme are often used as spices or garnishing.

Please note: Curly leaf parsley is very difficult to check. It is therefore recommended that only flat leaf parsley be used.

INFESTATION:

Aphids, thrips and other insects may often be found on the leaves and stems of these herbs. Insects tend to nestle in the crevices between the leaves and branches of herbs. These insects can curl up and stick to the leaf once they come in contact with water.

Recommendation: In order to determine if a particular bunch of herbs is infested prior to washing, bang it several times over a white cloth. This is most important when checking oregano, rosemary, sage and thyme. If only one or two insects are found proceed with the steps below. If three or more insects are detected in a particular bunch of herbs it should not be used.

INSPECTION:

1. Soak herbs in a solution of cold water and vegetable wash. The proper amount of vegetable wash has been added when some bubbles are observed in the water. (In the absence of vegetable wash, several drops of concentrated non-scented liquid detergent may be used. However, for health reasons, care must be taken to thoroughly rinse off the soapy solution.)

2. Agitate the herbs in the soapy water, in order to loosen the sticking excretion of the bugs.

3. Using a heavy stream of water, thoroughly wash off the soap and other foreign matter from the herbs.

4. Check both sides of each leaf under a direct light.

5. If one or two insects are found, rewash the herbs.

6. If any insects are found after repeating the agitation process twice, the entire bunch must be discarded.

Please note: When preparing herbs such as cilantro, dill and parsley for soup, they may simply be washed thoroughly and placed in a cooking bag.

Asparagus, White

This hard to find and very expensive cousin to green asparagus has neither open florets nor scales for the insects to occupy. Hence, it may be used without any special preparation. However, it should be washed thoroughly before using.

Rabbi Bistricer is a Rabbinic Coordinator at the Orthodox Union and specializes in, among other things, fruits and vegetables. www.oukosher.org

Please consult with your LOR about your personal guidelines re insect inspection

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Prevention & Treatment

Common Eye Conditions in the Elderly

As we age, our eyes undergo natural changes that can lead to various eye conditions. While some conditions are unavoidable, many can be prevented or delayed with proper care. It’s crucial to recognize the signs and take steps to prevent or treat these conditions to ensure healthy vision and a good quality of life.

Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

Prevention: Diet rich in leafy greens, exercise, and quit smoking

Treatment: Vitamin supplements, anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) injections, photodynamic therapy.

Cataracts

Prevention: Wear sunglasses, reduce blue light exposure, and maintain a healthy diet.

Treatment: Surgical removal and lens replacement.

Glaucoma

Prevention: Regular eye exams, manage chronic conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure.

Treatment: Eye drops, oral medication, laser surgery, or traditional surgery.

Diabetic Retinopathy

Prevention: Manage diabetes, maintain healthy blood sugar levels, and regular eye exams.

Treatment: Laser surgery, vitrectomy, or injection therapy.

Dry Eye Syndrome

Prevention: Blink regularly, use humidifiers, and avoid dry environments.

Treatment: Artificial tears, punctal plugs, or prescription medication

Presbyopia

Prevention: None, but regular eye exams can help detect and manage.

Treatment: Reading glasses, bifocal lenses, or contact lenses

Retinal Detachment

Prevention: Regular eye exams, wear protective eye gear during risky activities.

Treatment: Laser surgery, cryotherapy, or scleral buckle surgery.

Macular Degeneration

Prevention: Similar to AMD prevention.

FOCUS ON VISION

Navigating the World of Eye Specialists

There are several types of eye specialists, each with their own unique responsibilities and areas of expertise. These professionals work together to provide comprehensive eye care and treatment for various eye conditions.

Optometrists:

Are primary eye care professionals who specialize in routine eye exams, prescribing glasses or contact lenses, and diagnosing common eye problems like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and conjunctivitis. They may also treat dry eye syndrome, prescribe medication for eye infections, and perform minor eye procedures.

Ophthalmologists:

Are medical doctors who specialize in eye surgery, treating more complex eye conditions like cataracts, glaucoma, and retinal detachment. They can also diagnose and manage eye diseases like diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration. Ophthalmologists may perform surgeries like LASIK, cataract removal, and corneal transplants.

Orthoptists:

Orthoptists are specialists who focus on the diagnosis and treatment of eye movement disorders, amblyopia (lazy eye), and strabismus (crossed eyes). They work with ophthalmologists and optometrists to develop treatment plans that may include exercises, prisms, or surgery.

Opticians:

Opticians are trained professionals who fill prescriptions for glasses or contact lenses, adjust and repair eyewear, and provide guidance on frame selection. They work closely with optometrists and ophthalmologists to ensure accurate and comfortable vision correction.

Cornea and Refractive Surgeons:

These ophthalmologists specialize in surgical procedures related to the cornea, such as LASIK, PRK, and corneal transplants. They also treat conditions like keratoconus and corneal ulcers.

Retina Specialists:

Retina specialists are ophthalmologists who focus on treating conditions affecting the retina and vitreous, like retinal detachment, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy.

Insights into Aging Eye Care

An Interview with Dr. Jeffrey Stillman, MD

CSM (Center Spirit Magazine): Good morning, Dr. Smith. Thank you for taking the time to speak with us today about proper eye care and preventative measures, especially for the elderly.

Dr. Stillman: Good morning! It’s my pleasure to share my expertise and help people understand the importance of eye care, particularly as we age.

CSM: Let’s start with the basics. Why is regular eye care important, especially for older adults?

Dr. Stillman: As we age, our eyes undergo natural changes that can affect our vision. Regular eye exams can detect potential issues before they become serious problems. Early detection and treatment can prevent vision loss and improve quality of life.

CSM: What are some common eye problems that affect the elderly?

Dr. Stillman: Age-related macular degeneration, cataracts, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and dry eye syndrome are all more prevalent in older adults.

Additionally, age-related changes like presbyopia can make reading and close tasks more difficult.

CSM: That’s a great point. What preventative measures can older adults take to protect their eyes?

Dr. Stillman: Wearing sunglasses with UV protection, eating a balanced diet rich in omega-3s, exercising regularly, and not smoking can all help. Also, taking breaks when using digital devices and adjusting lighting and contrast can reduce eye strain.

CSM: What about vitamins and supplements? Can they benefit eye health?

Dr. Stillman: Absolutely! Vitamins A, C, and E, along with zinc and selenium, can help prevent age-related eye diseases. Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA and EPA, support eye health and may reduce the risk of macular degeneration.

CSM: That’s great to know. What about screen time? How can older adults protect their eyes when using digital devices?

Dr. Stillman: It’s essential to follow the 20-20-

20 min look away from your screen and every focus on something away 20 feet for 20 sec 20-20-20 RULE

20 rule: every 20 minutes, look away from your screen and focus on something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. Adjusting the display settings, using blue light filtering glasses or software, and maintaining good posture can also reduce eye strain.

CSM: What about cataracts? How can older adults prevent or delay cataract development?

Dr. Stillman: Wearing sunglasses with UV protection, eating foods rich in antioxidants like vitamin C and E, and staying hydrated can help. Some studies suggest that omega-3 fatty acids and a diet low in sugar may also reduce cataract risk.

CSM: That’s fascinating. What role does diabetes play in eye health, and how can older adults manage diabetic eye disease?

Dr. Stillman: Diabetes can lead to vision-threatening conditions like diabetic retinopathy, cataracts, and glaucoma. Regular eye exams, controlling blood

sugar levels, and timely treatment can prevent or delay progression. Laser surgery and injections can also help manage diabetic eye disease.

CSM: What about age-related macular degeneration? Are there any new treatments or prevention strategies?

Dr. Stillman: While there is no cure, research suggests that nutritional interventions like the AREDS2 formula, along with lifestyle modifications, can slow progression. Emerging treatments like stem cell therapy and gene therapy offer hope for the future.

CSM: Thank you, Dr. Smith, for sharing your expertise and providing valuable insights into proper eye care for older adults.

Dr. Stillman: My pleasure! It’s essential to prioritize eye health and take proactive steps to prevent vision loss, especially as we age.

Is it the Right Choice for you?

Treatment Vision Laser

By Dr. Felicia Wegh

Laser vision treatment, also known as laser eye surgery or LASIK, has undergone significant advancements since its inception in the late 1980s. The development of new technologies, such as wavefront technology and femtosecond lasers, has improved the accuracy and safety of the procedure. As a result, laser vision treatment has become increasingly popular, with millions of procedures performed worldwide each year.

One of the key factors contributing to the popularity of laser vision treatment is its ability to improve visual acuity and reduce recovery time. Unlike traditional eye surgery, laser vision treatment is a relatively painless and non-invasive procedure that can be performed on an outpatient basis. Patients can typically return to their normal activities within a few days, and the results can be life-changing.

achieved remarkable successes. Studies have shown that the procedure can significantly improve visual acuity and reduce dependence on glasses or contact lenses. Additionally, advancements in technology have expanded the applications of laser vision treatment beyond LASIK, including the treatment of glaucoma and cataracts.

Laser Vision

Improve visual acuity and reduce recovery time.

However, as with any surgical procedure, risks and complications are associated with laser vision treatment. These can include dry eye, infection, and undercorrection. Additionally, the cost of the procedure can be a significant factor, with prices ranging from $1,000 to $3,000 per eye.

Despite these risks and costs, laser vision treatment has

To ensure the best possible outcomes, it is essential for patients to undergo a thorough evaluation before undergoing the procedure. This includes a comprehensive eye exam, medical history, and discussion of expectations and potential risks. Patients should also research and choose a qualified and experienced eye surgeon to perform the procedure.

In conclusion, laser vision treatment has come a long way since its inception and continues to evolve with new technologies and applications. While risks and complications exist, the benefits of the procedure have made it a popular choice for millions of people worldwide. As the field continues to advance, it is essential to prioritize patient education, thorough evaluation, and realistic expectations to ensure the best possible outcomes.

Chol Hamoed Festival

Concert with Chaim Blumenfeld Dancing with Tantzers

Mesmerizing Juggling Show with Danny the Clown Kumzits with Shia Fried

Step into an Exciting Adventure with Virtual Reality

Please refer to resident’s room calendar for date, time and locations.

For Boro Park Center residents and accompanying family members only.

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ייח ךיאמדב

Blood Libels Throughout History

By Shimon Sheinkopf

In the months since the horrible events of October seventh, the perennial specter of antisemitism has been on everyone’s minds. The evil acts committed by the Hamas terrorists should have provoked horror and outrage throughout the world at large. Instead, what followed was a horror of a different kind.

Many blamed the Jews for what happened, and in their reaction revealed not just a lack of empathy, but their hatred for Jews as a people. Their rhetoric combined both an ignorance of historical facts, tremendous logical flaws, and the blatant dehumanization of Jews. But to any student of history, this reaction should come as no surprise. From the time of Avraham

until our modern age, Am Yisroel has faced hatred, opposition, and persecution, built on a foundation of absurd lies and lurid conspiracies.

Nowhere is this clearer than in the history of the blood libel. For centuries, the accusation of ritual murder was the most potent and destructive lie told about Jews. According to historians, there have been at least 150 recorded blood libels throughout history. Each time this accusation was made, it led to persecution, pogroms, massacres, expulsions, and the destruction of entire communities. In its legacy of tragedy and destruction, the blood libel typifies the malignant spirit of blind Sinas Yisroel.

Flavius Josephus

WHAT IS A BLOOD LIBEL

The basic form of blood libel is the accusation that Jews use human blood in their religious rituals, and that they will kill non-Jews, especially non-Jewish children, in order to obtain this blood. In many cases, the accusation was specifically that they would put blood in the matza, and many blood libels occurred around Pesach time. Other usages would also be mentioned, such as using blood for Hamantashen or drinking it to be cured of supposed “Jewish” illnesses. In earlier iterations, the focus was more on the murder; If a corpse would be found, or if someone would go missing, the local people would blame the Jews. As time went on, a more specific mythology began to develop around blood itself, and the supposed usage and necessity of blood in Jewish rituals.

HISTORICAL ROOTS OF THE BLOOD LIBEL

Of all ancient religions, Judaism is the only one that has a ban against the consumption of blood. In five different places in the Torah, we are told that consuming blood is forbidden. Murder also is equivocally forbidden by the Torah, both for Jews as well as for B’nei Noach. How then, was the belief so accepted that Jews kill people to consume their blood in religious rituals, if the primary text of our religion explicitly forbids both? One answer is that for most of history, there was an ignorance of Jewish texts and practice. What little that was known was always filtered through attitudes that were already prejudiced against Jews. The facts were irrelevant to people who had already made up their minds. The idea of the blood libel was introduced very early in history, and it slowly gained steam until it became a dominant idea in the public consciousness. At that point, the idea had taken on a reality of its own, ingrained over centuries, and it became almost impossible to convince people of its falsehood despite all the

Jewish religion. He relates a bizarre story of how the Greek king Antiochus discovered a prisoner in the Bes Hamikdash. The prisoner pleaded with the king to free him, because the Jews were fattening him up to kill him and use his body in a religious ritual. The famous Jewish historian Flavius Josephus wrote a stinging rebuttal to Apion’s claim, in a book aptly title Against Apion (Contra Apion). He pointed out all the logical fallacies in Apion’s story of the Greek king and the prisoner, the contradictions and the absurdities. However, despite Josephus's best efforts to debunk it, the idea that murder and human sacrifice are part of Judaism remained in the public imagination throughout the times of antiquity.

THE CHRISTIAN ERA

In the later eras, when Christianity became the dominant religion throughout Europe and other parts of the world, the blood libel took on a new prominence and significance. Jews were already vilified by their Christian neighbors as enemies of the church. In their eyes, the Jews bore responsibility for murdering their savior, and their guilt for this historic crime meant that they were hated and blamed for many other crimes. They were an unwelcome presence in the cities and towns of Christendom, outsiders hated for their odd rituals and beliefs, and their stubborn refusal to accept Christianity.

The Hellenized Egyptian author Apion, who lived in the First century of the common era, provided one of the first foundations for the blood libel accusation. In his writings, he criticizes and mocks the

The focus on blood may have roots in Christian belief itself. Blood is a very important motif in Christianity, a belief system which revolves around the violent suffering and death of one man. They have a very important ritual where a priest serves everyone wine to drink which, according to some sects represents the blood of the savior, while others staunchly believe that it somehow miraculously “becomes” his blood. Either way, the idea developed that in a reflection of their original crime against the “first Christian”, the Jews continue to murder Christians. This was connected to a supposed dark, inverted version of the Christian ritual, where the Jews would actually consume the blood of their

Josephus book debunking early blood Libels

victims. This twisted mindset formed the standard blood libel, which was used to scapegoat innocent Jews and communities all over the world.

EARLY EUROPEAN BLOOD LIBELS MEDIEVAL ENGLAND

The earliest recorded blood libels were a series of accusations leveled against the Jews of Medieval England. As noted above, these earlier blood libels focused more on the murder than the actual usage of the blood, but the tragic result was the same. From 1144 until the Jews expulsion from England in 1290, there were many blood libels, each of which wreaked havoc for the community. The first of these was in 1144 in Norwich, where a large community of French speaking Jews lived. A young boy named William was found murdered and the Jewish community was quickly blamed for killing the innocent Christian boy. The Jews were summoned to court by the bishop, but were protected by the local sheriff, who dismissed the case against them. In the years to follow, a Benedictine monk named Thomas of Monmouth wrote a book about the case, maintaining the guilt of the Jews and claiming that the dead boy had been specially targeted because he was a miracle worker. This text proved to be very influential, and William of Norwich was venerated as saint. An entire cult sprang up around the story of the supposed victim of Jewish treachery, with people coming to worship at a shrine in William’s honor.

William of Norwich established a pattern of British blood

libels, one that would continue across Europe through the centuries. Very often, the murdered person would become the focus of posthumous worship, with songs and prayers being written about them for generations to come. They would be revered as a saint, and the stories of their great piety and saintliness, and their death at the hands of the cruel Jews, would be repeated. These legends and cults, with their strong emotional pull and their perverse focus on Jews as practitioners of ritual murder, ingrained a deep hatred and fear into the consciousness of medieval England, for both commoners and noblemen alike. In Gloucester in 1168, in Suffolk in 1181, and in Bristol in 1183, English Jews faced similar accusations, and in all the cases the victim became the focus of a cult.

The most famous and tragic of these cases was Hugh of Lincoln in 1255. What made this case different was that members of the English royalty themselves became

A satirical postcard showing the aftermath of the Beilis trial. Beilis goes to America but Russian anti-semtisim continues

(Photo Credit: Yivo Institute)

involved in it, making its impact far greater. Many Jews had gathered in the town of Lincoln for a wedding, and then the body of a nine-year-old boy was found in a well. The Jews were immediately accused of murder by the local townspeople. Under torture, one Jew confessed to the crimes. Modern historians believe that the religious authorities likely were motivated to promote the story because establishing a victim as a saint had already been proven as a surefire way to create popularity and donations for the local church, which would serve as a shrine to the victim. King Henry III, who happened to be traveling through Lincoln at the time, took up the cause of the murdered Christian boy. He demanded the immediate execution of the Jew who had confessed, and the arrest of ninety other Jews who had no relation to the crime, who were imprisoned in the Tower of London. Eighteen of them were hanged after they refused to participate in the sham trials, and the rest were held for months until they were finally released after the intervention of influential noblemen and Prince Richard of Cornwall.

Royal association with the case of Hugh of Lincoln did not end there. Years later, when all Jews were expelled from England, King Edward created a shrine to Hugh, bolstering the idea that the Jews had been expelled from England because they were murdering Christian children. Hugh’s story grew and became a basic staple of English folklore. Important figures of medieval literature, Geoffrey Chaucer and Christoper Marlowe, whose works are still studied today as classics of the English language, both included references to the Jews as child murderers. There are countless songs and tributes to Hugh, all of which were very popular and remained in circulation until the modern era.

Rabbi Joseph Telushkin, in his book Jewish Literacy, relates the story of a road trip through Arkansas in the early 70’s, during which he purchased a book of local folk songs. Included was a song about Hugh of Lincoln, with the lyrics explicitly describing the villainous Jews and how they trapped and murdered the innocent young saint. From medieval England to rural America, the myth of the blood libel persisted, poisoning minds across the world and across the centuries.

BLOOD LIBELS ON THE EUROPEAN CONTINENT

Even before the Jews were expelled from England, the blood libel myth had preceded them across the English Channel. Thomas of Monmouth’s writings about William of Norwich had reached communities in France and other areas, and the idea began to take on a new form. It was at this point in history that more specific, complex accusations began to appear about why the Jews needed the blood and how they would use it.

Tragically, the concept of the blood libel was buttressed by false information provided by Jews who had become meshumad and joined Christianity. In order to gain favor with their new Christian compatriots, they were willing to tell lies about Yiddishkeit that they knew the Christians wanted to hear. In 1240, a Meshumad named Nicholas Donin brought copies of the Gemara to the Christian authorities, telling them that it was full insults to nonjews and blasphemies against Christianity. Incensed, the church summoned a group of rabbis to a debate where they would have to defend the Talmud against the charges. Despite their best efforts, the debate led to a series of events that culminated with the burning of 24 wagons full of seforim, all of which, in the pre-printing press age, had to have been written by hand. This tragedy was witnessed by the Maharam M’Rotenburg and is the focus of a Kinna that we say on Tisha B’av. With supposed “insiders”, formerly part of the Jewish community fanning the flames of hatred and confirming all of the Christians’ darkest fantasies about Jews, the blood libel idea continued to grow and spread.

In 1171, the unsolved murder of a child in Blois, Frace was blamed on the local Jews. Many were imprisoned, included among them several of the Baalei Tosfos, students of Rashi’s grandson, the Rashbam. When they refused to convert to Christianity, they were killed Al Kiddush Hashem. The rest were put up for ransom, along with the Sifrei torah and Seforim of the town. In response to this tragedy, Rabeinu Tam declared the twentieth of Sivan to be a fast day which was observed for centuries among the communities of Ashkenaz.

At the time, the Jewish community was mostly focused in Western Europe, and that is where most early blood libels occurred. In 1235, 1267, 1270, 1287 and 1293, blood libels happened across Alsace-Lorraine, Germany and Switzerland, leading to the mass imprisonment, torture and deaths of innocent Jews. Even if Jews avoided these horrific outcomes, they still were guaranteed to face fines, taxes, expulsion and other forms of persecution in the wake of a blood libel. Much like the original English blood libels, these accusations were opportunistic as well as antisemitic; religious and political authorities recognized that blood libels could help them achieve many other goals. Modern historians believe that a blood libel in Spain in

1490 was instigated by the Spanish Inquisition as a pretext for the expulsion of Jews from Spain. In 1592, in what is now Slovakia, thirty Jews were burned to death after the local count, Wolfgang Von Peznik, accused them of murdering a young Christian boy. Soon afterwards, the boy was found alive in Vienna, and it was revealed that the count had hidden him there and fabricated the story because he and his brother owed a lot of money to the local Jews.

BLOOD LIBELS IN POLAND AND RUSSIA

Expulsions and persecution pushed the Jews of Europe slowly westward. By the 17th century, blood libel allegations became increasingly prevalent in Eastern Europe, particularly in regions like Poland and Lithuania. Jewish migration to Poland from German territories during the Middle Ages, under the protection promised by Polish nobles, led to a deteriorating situation for Jews in Poland, fueling the spread of blood libel accusations.

In 1690, a tragic incident unfolded when six-year-old Gavriil Belostoksky was abducted from his home in Zverki, within the Commonwealth of Poland-Lithuania. A Jew named Shutko was accused of the murder in Bialystok, and the young boy is revered until today as a saint in the Russian Orthodox Church, much like the original English blood libels centuries before. As recently as 1997, Belarussian state media has promoted the blood libel, broadcasting a film blaming Shutko and the Jews for murdering the saint.

Blood libel charges in Eastern Europe frequently incited pogroms, characterized by anti-Jewish violence and riots. The notorious Kishinev pogrom of 1903 originated with the killing of a Christian boy in Dubossary, located approximately 15 miles north of Kishinev, the capital of Bessarabia in the Russian Empire. Propelled by incendiary articles in the Russian-language antisemitic newspaper

“The Bessarabian,” the pogrom erupted on April 19, 1903, coinciding with Easter Sunday. Over the course of three days, nearly 50 Jews were murdered, and hundreds more were injured. Jewish homes and businesses were ransacked and razed, devastating the community and leading to a wave of immigration to America.

THE DAMASCUS AFFAIR OF 1840

In 1840, a new blood libel terrorized a Jewish community. What made this one different is that it was happening in the Muslim Middle East, instead of in Christian Europe. This shows how the blood libel idea spread like a virus, escaping its main context to infect other antisemitic societies. The Jewish community of Damascus, Syria in 1840 was very wealthy and well-established. Jews had lived in Damascus for centuries, and although they tried to keep a low profile, their presence and position in the city was very well-known. The blood libel seemed to appear out of thin air and rocked the community, eventually becoming a cause taken up by Jews worldwide. In the relative modernity of 1840, to many a blood libel seemed like a relic from the past, but once Jews saw how serious the situation was, they sprang into action. Through many political and diplomatic machinations, and the exertion of a public outcry and powerful influence, the Jews were able to avert a complete disaster, although the tragic story did claim the lives of several Jews.

city, who immediately blamed the Jews for the disappearance of the priest. They were supported in this effort by Ulysse de Ratti-Menton, the local French consul, was a known antisemite and a canny political operator. He knew that he could leverage the idea of a blood libel, relatively unknown in the Muslim lands, to attack the Jewish community and raise the fortunes of Christian merchants. Under his influence, local authorities quickly arrested a number of Jewish individuals, including prominent community members, and subjected them to brutal torture to extract confessions. The accused endured unimaginable suffering, with some even dying under torture. Some claimed they were willing to convert to Islam and confess to their crimes. They told contradictory and nonsensical stories about how influential Jews in the town had murdered the priest. Despite the lack of evidence and the coerced nature of the confessions, the authorities pressed forward with the trial.

The affair began with the disappearance of a Capuchin friar named Father Thomas and his Muslim servant on February 5, 1840. Damascus was an international city, where many representatives of different powers vied for influence and control. Although the land was under Ottoman rule, there was notable British and French influence in the city as well. There was a strong Christian presence in the

News of the Damascus Affair spread quickly, sparking outrage and condemnation from Jewish communities worldwide and drawing international attention. Jewish leaders, activists, and diplomats launched campaigns to pressure Ottoman authorities to intervene and secure the release of the innocent prisoners. One of the key figures was Sir Moses Montefiore, a prominent Jewish philanthropist and communal leader. Montefiore traveled to Damascus to personally intervene in the case, meeting with Ottoman officials and appealing for justice. His efforts, along with those of other diplomats and influential

Damascus, 1980

figures, eventually led to the release of the surviving prisoners and the dismissal of the charges against them.

THE BEILIS TRIAL & THE END OF THE BLOOD LIBEL ERA

The aftermath of the Damascus Affair shook the world. How could an enlightened modern society still believe in the lurid nonsense of blood libels? The world had been shocked by how French officials, and a large segment of French society, had supported the accusation against the Jews of Damascus. Despite the supposed civilizing force of modernity, the ancient belief persisted into the twentieth century. Blood libels continued occurring around the world, including one in Shiraz, Persia in 1910, and a minor one in upstate New York in 1928. The most famous of these was the Beilis Trial, a notorious legal case that took place in the Russian Empire from 1913 to 1914. It centered around the false accusation of ritual murder against Menachem Mendel Beilis, a Jew who worked in a brick factory in Kiev.

A young Ukrainian boy named Andrei Yushchinsky was found brutally murdered in a cave near Kiev in March 1911. His body showed signs of ritualistic mutilation, and almost immediately, rumors began to circulate that the Jews were responsible for the crime. Despite a lack of evidence linking Beilis to the crime, he was arrested in July 1911 and held in prison for over two years awaiting trial. The prosecution’s case rested primarily on the testimony of dubious witnesses and the promotion of the classic idea of the blood libel.

The trial, which began in September 1913, attracted widespread attention both within Russia and internationally. The defense team, led by the renowned lawyer Oscar Gruzenberg, vigorously challenged the prosecution’s case, exposing inconsistencies, contradictions, and the reliance on anti-Semitic tropes. The trial became a battleground not only for Beilis’s innocence but also for broader

issues of religious tolerance and justice in the Russian Empire.

Famously, the Talmud itself was put on trial, which led to several fascinating moments. A Christian priest, a supposed expert on the Talmud and its anti-gentile statements, was called to the stand to testify. The lawyer Gruzenberg asked him “Who was Baba Basra and where does she live?” Stumped, the priest meekly admitted that he didn’t know the old lady, and the courtroom erupted in laughter at the charlatan.

Another more serious accusation revolved around the quote from Yevamos 61a: ”You (the Jewish people) are called “Adam” (Man), and the other nations are not called “Adam” (Man).” The prosecutors pressed, “How can the Jewish people assert exclusive identification as ‘man,’ while other nations are not afforded the same distinction? This surely implies a belief in the inferiority of non-Jews!” In response, the defense used an answer that had been prepared for them by Rabbi Meir Shapiro, the Rosh Yeshiva of Chachmei Lublin. “Kol Yisrael areivim zeh lazeh,” signifies the collective responsibility of all Jews for one another. He emphasized that within the courtroom, the fate of a single Jew, Mendel Beilis, was being determined, yet the ramifications reverberated across the global Jewish community. Rabbi Shapiro instructed them to pose a question to the judge: “Would the entire nation of Italy or France mobilize in prayer and advocacy if one of their citizens were arrested in a foreign land? Would they anxiously await news of his release? Certainly not. However, when a Jew in Russia faces wrongful accusation, the entirety of Jewish people stands in solidarity, for we are truly united. Ours is the only nation that views itself as one unified entity. The term ‘Adam,’ meaning ‘man,’ in Hebrew is only singular, and cannot be used for plurality. It exemplifies the singular unity of the Jewish nation, and that is why it is described in the Talmud as applying only to the Jews.”

Lincoln England (photo credit: www.itsallaboutlincoln.co.uk)

Despite intense pressure from reactionary forces and anti-Semitic groups, including attempts to intimidate witnesses and manipulate the legal process, Beilis was acquitted by a jury on October 28, 1913. Much like the Damascus Affair of 1840, the Tefilos, public outcry and practical hishtadlus of Jews worldwide were able to avert the worst effects of these blood libels. These stories served as proof for the words of Rabbi Meir Shapiro: the Achdus of Klal Yisroel is a powerful and unique force that can turn back the harshest decrees.

BLOOD LIBELS TODAY

In a certain sense, the Beilis trial marked the end of the era of the blood libel. It was the last time that the accusation, in its most literal form, led to a trial and imprisonment of Jews. But the legacy of the blood libel lives on in the persistent anti-Semitic and conspiratorial scapegoating of Jews for all the worlds ills. The Protocols of the Elders of Zion, an anti-Semitic text produced by secret agents of the Czar in the 1800’s, claimed to show that Jewish leaders were collaborating on a plot for world domination. Its malignant ideas remain influential until today. Hitler Y’MSM rose to power on his claims that the Jews had caused Germany to lose World War I and that they wanted to destroy German society. In the notorious propaganda newspapers of Nazi Germany, blood libels and accusations of ritual murder appeared almost daily. In 2005, members of the Russian parliament publicly stated that Jews practice ritual murder.

Although it was not indigenous to the Muslim world, blood libels have now become a major feature. Millions still believe in the literal truth of the blood libel. In 1986, Mustafa Tlass, the Syrian Defense Minister, authored “The Matzah of Zion,” which delves into two primary themes: the revived accusations of ritual murder against Jews in the Damascus incident of 1840 and the dissemination of The Protocols of the Elders of Zion. As of 2002, “The Matzah of Zion” was in

its eighth reprint and was in the process of being translated nto English, French, and Italian, with further plans to make the book into a movie. This is but one of many examples that can be found of Muslim and Arab politicians, authors, journalists and religious leaders who explicitly state that they believe the myth of the blood libel.

The most recent blood libel-like accusation was the one made early in the war, that the Israelis had deliberately bombed a Palestinian hospital, killing hundreds of people. Just like the earliest blood libels, the story was swallowed whole by the public, and the frenzy was stoked by the media and public figures eager to latch onto any story that confirmed their narrative about evil Jews. It was disheartening, but not surprising, to see how little has changed since the days of Apion and William of Norwich.

Every year, we read in the Haggada the words B’damayich Chayi; by your blood shall you live. Our survival throughout the centuries has been a torturous path, where something as bizarre and untrue as the blood libel remained a perennial specter of misfortune. What has carried us through all these horrible accusations has been our Emuna in Hashem, and our knowledge of the true beauty of Yiddishkeit. We know that our way of life is not defined by barbarism and violence, but by the pursuit of truth, peace and Yashrus. As we celebrate Pesach, and our status as Benei Chorin, let us remember the generations that came before us and the challenges they faced, and honor the commitments they made to keep the flame burning at all costs.

Memory Lane

By: YS Gold

An Important staple in Boro Park of Yesteryear

Seltzer was once the beverage of choice for Boro Parkers of yesteryear, and many can recall the seltzer truck that used to make the rounds, delivering seltzer in glass bottles.

To help us with the history of seltzer and its importance to Boro Park Yidden of yesteryear, we enlisted the help of Barry Joseph, a historian at the American Museum of Natural History, who wrote Seltzertopia; The Extraordinary Story of an Ordinary Drink.

He explains: There was a time when seltzer was synonymous with Jews. “Specifically for that first generation of Ashkenazi Jews who arrived in New York City, seltzer was always on the table, and many family members worked in the business. An editorial in 1903, entitled “The Jew in the Bottling Business” extolled this new “class of industrious and energetic men, who are finding the business of bottling beverages an attractive vocation [and] learning the business in large numbers.”

“Also,” adds Mr. Joseph, “for many who were Kosher, seltzer could be relied upon. And, as our parents and grand-parents (and great-grandparents) moved away from the Lower East side [many of them to the spacious living conditions of Boro Park] we took this new American-Jewish delicacy with us, enabled by the many seltzer men who would deliver the siphons door to door (the siphon is that custom-made metal spout atop the bottle, so crucial to keeping that strong fizz trapped inside the glass bottle).

Back in the day, every home had their own seltzer man. A truck would pull up, enter an apartment building with a new case of seltzer; make the rounds floor to floor, and leave with the empty siphons. As soon as he pulled away the next guy would pull in, working the

same building, just different apartments. In addition, the candy shops relied heavily on seltzer, which they would mix with a variety of syrup’s.

“There were dozens of seltzer bottlers in Brooklyn and hundreds if not thousands of delivery men around the city. The height of seltzer delivery was most likely between the 1920’s-to the 1950’s."

Boro Park’s Seltzer Union Shop

Which brings us to the union battles in Boro Park of the 1920’s, there were some treacherous times for seltzer deliveries in Boro Park due to the battles between the “seltzer bosses” in Boro Park, and the union delivery men.

Thus, we find in the Forverts (the paper of the union laborers) many articles related to this skirmish: “Boro Park seltzer bosses do not want to employ union seltzer workers. In Boro Park there are four seltzer drawers, and none of them want to employ any union workers. One shop, on 41st Street had kept union people… but has since fired them. The seltzer makers union has declared a strike, and the union is asking the Boro Park population to help us win this strike by purchasing seltzer with the union label.

The following month it is announced: “the strike is still ongoing. The boss of the 41st Street has settled with a promise that he will only give seltzer and soda with the union label, and if any seltzer people refuse, you should make it known in the union office.

Finally, in 1924, they opened a shop in Boro Park: “The union has decided to open a cooperative union shop in Boro Park, and to send out from this shop our own wagons with seltzer, made in the union shop, by our own members.”

The seltzer truck is an extremely rare sighting in Boro Park of today, although Ronny Starman can sometimes be seen delivering from the back of his car to some stubborn siphon seltzer adherents who insist on clinging to that relic of days gone by.

Freedom True

Navigating life’s challenges with grace and resilience.

You mean you’re really not coming to us for Pesach? At all?” My mother’s incredulous voice floated through the phone wire and pierced my heart.

I winced. “Ma, we would love to. You know that. But Mendy’s parents are really not up to making Pesach anymore. There’s no one else that can host them…”

The line was silent for a minute, and finally my mother said, “Well, you have to do what’s right and kol hakavod to you, that you can do this, Liba.” I could almost hear the struggle in her voice.

Kol hakavod that you can do this, Mommy, I marveled.

and siblings for the unforeseeable future.

My memories of preparing for that Pesach have fortunately mellowed over time, but I can still recall the blood (lacerated fingers from too-sharp knives), sweat, and tears (I was expecting my next bundle of joy at the time) that led up to Erev Pesach. I must confess, though, that when I sat down and surveyed the royally set table, complete with Yom Tov delicacies and all the shining faces around me, I felt like a rightful queen.

Mendy could not stop thanking me. It was the greatest gift I could’ve given him.

“

Well, you have to do what’s right and kol hakavod to you, that you can do this, Liba...

As an only daughter amid several sons, I knew what a sacrifice it was for her to even say that. She was one of those really doting mothers who waited a whole year to have the family together at the Seder, who would beam in ecstasy when all the menfolk sang Hallel. And so—with my mother’s blessing—I began the chapter of Hosting My In-Laws for Pesach.

Like any good plot, there were those so-called villains, ironic twists, and inevitable dramatic confrontations.

During the first three years of our marriage, we’d been dutifully splitting each Yom Tov between the two sides. But after one particularly difficult Pesach, I realized my mother-in-law was simply incapable of hosting us any longer. Plagued by a host of health issues (all right, for the sake of accuracy, health concerns), she would get stressed out by the mere mention of our arrival. It mattered little that I would come early and do most—if not all—of the cooking and baking, tidy the bedrooms, and have Mendy do her shopping and errands. It wasn’t as if I was coming with a vanload of unruly kids, either. My only child at that time was any grandma’s dream.

But ever adventurous, I bravely offered to host them the following Pesach. Too late, I realized that the invitation would by extension automatically include the single siblings, Uncle Max—an aging bachelor—as well as a motley assortment of cousins who did not have many Seder options. All in all, a happy total of fourteen souls. Ah, sure. Any time.

And too late, I realized that I would be whispering goodbye to shared Yomim Tovim with my beloved parents

And so that became the hallowed Pesach tradition in the Schonberg family. My in-laws knew they could count on me for a five-star hotel experience with all the trimmings, year after year. Though I won’t deny that I sometimes felt a twinge when I’d hear my friends planning their Pesach accommodations, there was a certain contentment in doing the right thing…even if it wasn’t necessarily the trend among my age group.

Despite all the hard work (euphemism for avodas perach), deep down I was overjoyed at the opportunity to help my in-laws in such a significant way. And my children thrived at a Seder that was centered on them.

But then we moved to Denver. Suddenly, hosting my in-laws became a sticky affair. If they’d come to me, then I wouldn’t even be able to stop in at my own family at any point of Yom Tov. Whereas in the past, I’d visit my parents and spend time with my siblings—if not at the Seder itself—now I would forfeit the chance to see them for months at a time! I knew this would not go over well with my mother, especially. She’d cried buckets when we’d moved out of Queens. This raised the mesirus nefesh to a whole new plateau.

It was the greatest gift I could’ve given him. “

But I knew my inlaws had nowhere else to go. To be honest, that first Pesach in Denver was pure torture, much as Mendy tried to ease my burden. As always, I waited on my mother-in-law hand and foot, chuckled heartily at Uncle Max’s ancient jokes, kept my kids mesmerized with my rendition of Yetzias Mitzrayim—but this time I could not

recharge my batteries by shmoozing with my mother and kibbitzing around with my brothers. Now I had to be my own fountain of inspiration and good cheer. The effort was grueling.

So when I started discussing Pesach the following year with Mendy’s sister Peshy, she graciously offered to give me her home in Queens, all clean for Pesach. (She went to her in-laws every year for Pesach since they ran some kind of kiruv program, where she played a major role.) That way I could host my in-laws locally without them having to travel to Denver. All I had to do was cook. I was thrilled to be back in Queens for Pesach—and to receive a sparkling house to boot.

This arrangement worked out so beautifully that we did it again for the next two years.

And then came the great showdown.

Peshy had just renovated her home and tacked on a huge addition. When we arrived to get ready for Pesach, my kids were agog at their cousins’ new display of luxury, and I myself couldn’t get over the exquisite showroom of a kitchen with all-new gleaming appliances and vast expanse of fine wood and granite. It was with some trepidation that I began to cook in this opulent setting (al-beit covered in layers of silver foil).

Pesach was wonderfully hectic—I had four children at this point—and I hardly sat down to rest. But the minute it was over, the real marathon began. I was determined to return the house to Peshy in the pristine condition she’d presented it to me. Mendy and I raced around, putting all the dishes away in the basement; we washed all the linens and put them back on; we wiped every last smudge from the mirrors and windows. After hours of frenzied work, we collapsed at my mother’s house. And then, with our last reserves of strength, we flew to Denver.

I nearly dropped the phone. “What are you talking about?” “The house! I can’t tell you what damage all of you did to my brand-new addition!”

To this day, I can still remember where I was sitting when she dropped this explosion. For a minute, I couldn’t talk. I went numb all over. A million retorts ricocheted in my brain like furious little balls.

Somehow, I managed, “What’s the problem, exactly?” Could there have been a break-in?

A stream of words hit me, and I could barely make out a coherent line. Something about a scratch on the buffet, a jammed patio door…nothing that I could recall even noticing. I could hardly believe this was the calm, rational Peshy I knew.

Not a word of gratitude for the late-night hours I’d pulled, dishing up a chef’s array of food to please every palate. Not a whisper of thanks for changing over the entire kitchen—milchig and fleishig—back to pre-Pesach mode. Not a murmur of hakaras hatov for all my selfless devotion to her parents all these years—at my parents’ expense!

You only gain by doing the right thing. “

By the time Peshy arrived the next day, the house looked like an exhibit from a real estate brochure. There was not a chair out of place, let alone a crumb to be seen.

So when I saw Peshy’s number on my cell phone, I figured she was probably calling to thank me for leaving an immaculate home and for giving her parents such a marvelous Yom Tov experience.

“Hi, Peshy,” I said cheerfully. “How was your Pesach?”

“Liba!” she hissed. “How could you do that to me?!”

I hung up the phone and cried like I never did before. I felt so sick, I could not lift my head off the table. I had never felt so hurt, so unappreciated, so…betrayed.

And this is how Mendy found me—shoulders heaving, face streaming with tears.

As soon as I’d recovered somewhat, thanks to Mendy’s validating words and Extra-Strength Advil, I called a rav to discuss how to proceed.

“You say that this behavior is really uncharacteristic of your sister-in-law,” he noted. “I suspect that it might not be coming from her. You never know what goes on behind closed doors. Maybe her husband said something. But l’ma’an hashalom—and this will take a lot of gevurah on your part—please don’t react. Pretend this never happened and don’t let it affect your relationship with her.”

And then he added the clincher: “You only gain by doing the right thing.”

I wondered from where in my arsenal I could possibly harness such angelic middos.

And so began my real foray into avodas perach. As taxing as I thought it was to scrub through grime-

encrusted Lego and whip up a complete Pesach cuisine in two days, nothing compared to that first phone call after the confrontation. It took several weeks of inner battle just to summon up the gumption to dial and modulate my voice to casual-friendly. My knuckles were white from clenching the receiver so tightly. At the end of the brief but cordial convo (ostensibly to get a recipe from her), I felt like a teen who’d just earned her driver’s license.

And when she made a bas mitzvah for her daughter, I sent over an expensive gift along with an original, heartfelt poem. Every so often, I’d ask her advice on how to do the perfect iron-on transfers and how to occupy my kids on those long Shabbos afternoons.

You’re doing this for her shalom bayis, I kept reminding myself. Who knows what could’ve happened had I blasted her?

There was nothing more liberating, I discovered, than freeing oneself from the shackles of resentment and indignation.

Mendy was eternally grateful for all the inroads I’d made l’ma’an hashalom—and my own shalom bayis was thus enhanced a hundredfold.

Over the next few months, my business—I sell cosmetics and costume jewelry—went viral! Suddenly, I was inundated with orders and requests for makeup application courses. I earned more in one season than I did the entire year before! I couldn’t chalk it up to mere coincidence.

Of course, when Mendy was offered a golden shteller— from among one hundred and fifty promising candidates who’d been vying for that position—I had no doubts.

These windfalls felt like presents of love, gift-wrapped and delivered by Hashem Himself.

You only gain by doing the right thing.

Hashem grants us endless opportunities to taste true freedom—by exercising our bechirah to rid ourselves of the chametz of jealousy, pettiness, and strife.

And if we are zocheh, we will reap riches untold.

Taken with permission from "Life Unwrapped" by Rochel Braverman (As told to the author by Sarah Taub)

This month in History

WRITTEN BY M.C. MILLMAN

In the early 1900s, the rising popularity of vehicles made it harder to identify them on the streets, giving rise to the need for license plates.

On April 25, 1901, Benjamin Odell Jr., New York Governor, signed a bill requiring automobile and motorcycle license plates. The law stated that owners had to put "the separate initials of the owner's name placed upon the back thereof in a conspicuous place, the letters forming such initials to be at least three inches in height."

Strangely, New York did not issue license plates to drivers. Vehicle owners were required to make their own using various materials. According to AAA, motorists used metal, wood, or leather; some even painted letters directly onto their vehicles from 1901-1909.

In 1903, Massachusetts provided the first state-issued license plates to residents. The AAA describes Massachusetts plates as cobalt blue and made of iron covered with porcelain enamel. The first issued plate was a number "1" given to Frederick Tudor, a worker for the highway commission.

A member of Frederick's family still has this active registration.

New York followed suit seven years later, in 1910, and began issuing license plates for New York's vehicles. According to the DMV, all 48 contiguous

New York Becomes the First State to Require License Plates

United States were issuing license plates by 1918.

In 1957, the United States set the standardized license plate size to 12 by 6 inches. Before this point, many shapes were used, like oval, square, round, and triangular. According to the DMV,  Kansas, and Tennessee cut their plates to match the shape of the state itself.

Idaho was the first state to print a slogan on its license plate in 1928. After Idaho stamped "Idaho Potatoes" on all of its license plates, other states followed suit. New York's slogan, "Excelsior," was voted in by New Yorkers and replaced the "Empire State" slogan in 2020.

Today's New York license plate is a scenic, all-encompassing style with a white background and blue lettering depicting famous New York images of Niagara Falls, the Adirondack mountains, the Statue of Liberty, the Manhattan skyline, and a lighthouse along the bottom with "Excelsior" written in gold below the license plate number.

The new plates have rapidly overtaken the old-styled Empire Gold plates on the streets of New York as new vehicle registrations continue apace in New York. Excelsior - another new style in a long series of historical changes to New York license plates.

Iran Hostage Crisis Rescue Mission Ends in Disaster

On April 24, 1980, a military rescue mission for American hostages held by Iranians failed miserably, leaving eight U.S. service members dead from a plane and helicopter collision.

The Iranian Hostage Crisis began on November 4, 1979, during Jimmy Carter's presidency. Islamic fundamentalists stormed the U.S. embassy in Tehran that day in an act of revolution against the pro-American Shah of Iran. The Iranians took more than 50 American hostages for 444 days. According to the Office of the Historian, "The Iran hostage crisis undermined Carter's conduct of foreign policy. The crisis dominated the headlines and news broadcasts, making the Administration look weak and ineffectual."

Six months into the Iranian Hostage Crisis, Carter arranged a military rescue mission. Unfortunately, three out of eight helicopters failed, leading to the cancelation of the mission. When the helicopters withdrew, one collided with a transport plane. Eight service members died, and five were injured in the accident.

According to Britannica, Secretary of State Cyrus Vance, who had opposed the mission, resigned in protest after this mission. The hostages were moved into new, concealed locations.

In May 1980, the U.S. instituted an economic embargo against Iran, which did little to help release the hostages. However, the Iran-Iraq war, which began in September 1980, along with the embargo, wore away at the Iranian economy. As written in Britannica, when the Iranian Prime Minister Mohammad Ali Rajai visited the United Nations in October, many world leaders told him that Iran could not expect support in the Iraq conflict as long as it held the U.S. hostages.

After intense negotiations, the hostages were finally released on January 20, 1981, minutes after the inauguration of the new U.S. president, Ronald Reagan and 270 days after the failed rescue mission.

Apple Inc. Is Formed After Initial Struggle for Product Approval

Apple was officially formed on April 1, 1976. It was launched from Steve Job's home together with Steve Wozniak.

By the mid-1970s, Steve Wozniak had designs for what became known as the Apple I computer, and Steve Jobs had ideas for how to sell them.

Hewlett-Packard was the first company the two pedaled their product to. HP refused the idea even though senior engineers agreed it was workable, and they even recognized it could be made cheaply. They decided, though, that the product didn't fit what they felt an HP computer should be.

Next to reject the Apple prototype was Atari.

After that, the pair chose to form the Apple Inc. company on April 1, 1976, with the help of venture capitalists and Atari engineer Ron Wayne.

Twelve days after joining the mission, Wayne chose to leave the company. Steve Jobs bought out Wayne's 10% share in the company for $800. Wayne also received an additional payout of $1,500. Had Wayne stayed on with Apple, his shares would be worth around $60 billion today.

Apple Inc's first personal computer went on sale in July 1976. Today, Apple is so successful it has twice as much money as the U.S. Treasury and over $155 billion in excess capital.

Since its challenging beginning, Apple Inc. has become one of the world's top corporations, generating billions of dollars annually and remaining a true leader in innovation and originality.

The Day 'In G-d We Trust' Became the Currency Trend

The words "In G-d We Trust" were first added to U.S. coins at the beginning of the Civil War as Americans, feeling a surge of religious sentiment, wanted the world to know what their country stood for.

Congress passed the Coinage Act of April 22, 1864, which authorized the minting of the two-cent coin, the first piece minted to coin the phrase "In G-d We Trust" adapted from a verse in the "Star Spangled Banner".

The phrase gained popularity after President Eisenhower signed into law the establishment of “In God We Trust” as the U.S. national motto on July 30, 1956. Since then, "In G-d We Trust" has represented more than just a motto. It has been the bedrock of our country’s foundation and the essence of our identity as Americans.

Adding the religious sentiment to America's coinage did not come without opposition, primarily due to claims that the statement did not allow for the separation of church and state.

In 1907, President Teddy Roosevelt ordered the phrase removed from the new design for gold coins, but a public protest convinced Congress to go back to the original design with the words included.

Years later, in 1955, Congress ordered "In G-d We Trust" to be printed on all paper currency resulting in the first paper currency bearing the motto. The new bills were first entered into circulation on October 1, 1957.

Legal actions working to remove the phrase have passed in and out of the legal system marching in lockstep with those who insist that the words "under G-d" should be struck from the Pledge of Allegiance, seemingly personally affronted by anything that has to do with the mention of G-d. For those of us who know better - In G-d We Trust.

The Pony Express Is Off and Running

On April 3, 1860, the mail delivery system known as the Pony Express began its 1,800-mile route running back and forth from St Joseph, Missouri, to Sacramento, California.

The Pony Express revolutionized how people across the United States communicated. The fastest delivery time for news and mail at the time was 22-25 days when sent on the Overland stagecoach. The Pony Express cut that time to 10 days or less.

This record-breaking accomplishment was delivered by establishing a network of relay stations where a team of riders mounted fresh horses every twenty-five miles. This enabled the mail to pass over long distances faster than if it had been delivered by any one messenger alone.

The relay stations constructed every 25 miles stretched on for 2,000 miles and required 500 horses to be on the ready for thirty

riders who braved the elements, the mountain passes and constant Indian attacks.

After an investment of $70,000 made by Central Overland California & Pikes Peak Express, or COC&PPE, the Pony Express started on April 3, 1860. Monthly expenses were $4,000.

Besides sharing news and keeping people in touch, the Pony Express quickly became an important tool for President Abraham Lincoln’s administration to get intelligence and military orders to California officials during the Civil War.

The Pony Express continued through October 1861, when the nation’s longest telegraph line was completed. This created the first instantaneous communication between the Atlantic and Pacific coasts, making the dire need for the Pony Express obsolete less than 19 months after it got off to a running start

Ronald Reagan Discharged From Hospital After Being Shot

Eleven days after being shot and seriously wounded by an assassin,  President Ronald Reagan was released from the hospital on April 10, 1981.

While leaving a speaking engagement, the President was shot outside a Washington, D.C., hotel by John W. Hinckley Jr. Within 1.7 seconds of the first shot, Hinckley emptied the chamber of his .22 caliber Röhm revolver. Reagan suffered a punctured lung which required emergency surgery. White House Press Secretary James Brady, Secret Service agent Timothy McCarthy, and District of Columbia Police Officer Thomas Delahanty were also wounded in the incident.

Hinckley, a product of a privileged youth and college dropout who craved fame, was handcuffed and arrested at the scene.

Reagan was taken to the emergency room, where a tube was inserted into his chest. An X-ray showed a metal fragment at the margin of his heart.

Reagan required infusions to stabilize his pressure which was nearly non-detectable upon arrival after he lost  40 percent of his body's blood.

When his wife approached his bedside, Reagan still had the wherewithal to crib boxer Jack Dempsey's line after a lost match and joked, "Honey, I forgot to duck."

The Battle of Baghdad

The Battle of Baghdad took place in early April 2003 and was a military invasion of Baghdad led by the U.S. that took place three weeks into the invasion of Iraq.

The U.S. invaded Iraq due to claims by President Bush that Saddam Hussein, Iraq's president of two decades, was continuing to stockpile and manufacture weapons of mass destruction. Bush also claimed Iraq was part of an international Axis of Evil along with Iran and North Korea and was a threat to international peace.

In October 2002, Congress authorized the use of military force against Iraq.

Operation Iraqi Freedom began the Battle of Baghdad on March 20, 2003, with 295,000 US and allied troops invading Iraq across its border with Kuwait.

On April 4, 2003, the First Brigade's Third Infantry Division advanced on the Baghdad International Airport. The location was deemed the best-defended Iraqi location of the entire war. It was captured after a battle of several hours.

On April 7, U.S. U.S. troops took control of a major presidential palace. Shortly after that, U.S. forces ordered Iraqi forces in Baghdad to surrender. I.S. forces threatened that the city would face a full-scale attack if it refused to surrender. Most Iraqi government officials had already disappeared. Those that were found were quick to concede defeat.

The response of the Iraqi civilians to the disappearance of their government was to immediately begin looting whatever they could: palaces, government offices, hospitals, medical equipment, the National Museum of Iraq (where

"I hope you are all Republicans," was another line the President quipped as he was wheeled into surgery.

"Mr. President," Dr. Joseph Giordano, head of the trauma team and a fifth-generation Democrat, responded, "for today, we are all Republicans."

Eleven days later, on April 10, the President was back at the White House.

John Hinckley Jr. was found not guilty by reason of insanity and was committed to a mental hospital. He was released in 2016 to Williamsburg, Virginia, the exclusive home of his mother.

nearly 170,000 irreplaceable historical artifacts were either stolen or broken) the Saddam Arts Center, the University of Baghdad, five-star hotels: state-owned supermarkets, factories, and homes. Nothing was safe, and the black market thrived as the only place one could purchase what was needed to survive.

On April 14, the Iraq National Library and National Archives burned, adding to the country's historical destruction as thousands of ancient manuscripts turned to ash in the flames.

On April 9, Saddam Hussein stepped away from his command bunker buried under the Al A'Zamiyah district of northern Baghdad and walked around while accompanied by his bodyguards and one of his sons. He was televised greeting those he met before he returned to hiding in his bunker.

By April 10, the American commanders heard that Saddam was in Al A'Zamiyah, but he wasn't captured until December 13, 2003. He was later tried and executed.

No weapons of mass destruction were ever found in Iraq.

Taken with permission from boropark24.com

HAPPENINGS AT

ROSH CHODESH ADAR FARBRENGEN

TU B'SHVAT TISH

BORO PARK CENTER

PURIM AT BPC

SIYUM ON MASECHTES BROCHOS

By:SchmutterMordechai

Pesach is all about minhagim. No two families have the same minhagim, and you always want to make sure that your kids carry on whichever minhagim you have. Minhagim are serious business, and are not to be treated lightly.

But you also want to make sure your kids know which things you do because they’re you’re minhagim and which things you do because that’s just what you do. Pesach has a lot of moving parts, and you can’t assume that they know which things are which. So if you don’t want to talk to your kids, on Pesach, at least write it in your will.

In fact, here is a list of things that, as far as my kids know, are our Pesach minhagim. Unless I say something to my kids, my sons are going to get married and tell their wives this is what we do, and my daughters will specifically marry people who don’t do some of these things.

“Do you have a minhag to eat way too many eggs?” they’ll ask someone on a date.

-We have a minhag to break something while Pesach cleaning. Usually the oven, but sometimes just knick-knacks that can’t stand up to once-a-year dusting.

-After I clean my kids’ rooms, I have a minhag to turn around to take one last look at the room, because when I come back, it won’t look this neat.

-I also have a minhag to hang little signs on each room that say, “Cleaned by Totty” that the kids have a minhag to ignore.

-We have a minhag to buy one less fridge liner than we need.

-I have a minhag, when I’m selling my chometz, to cooly slip the rabbi some money in a handshake, even though there’s no one else in the room.

-We have a minhag to get haircuts before Pesach. Really short. And when we get it, we have to say, “This is for Lag Ba’Omer.”

-We have a minhag to forget to cut paper towels until ten seconds before Yom Tov, and then cut an entire roll in a panic.

-We have a minhag, handed down through the generations, to go to zoos on Chol Hamoed.

-We also have a minhag to go on the Staten Island Ferry at least once every few years. Once on the ferry, we have a minhag to point out the Statue of Liberty.

-We have a minhag to spend a ridiculous amount of time trying to find a Jew-free attraction to go to. (Not specifically Jew-free; it just happens to be that Jews are the people that go that week. I don’t hate Jews. I hate all people equally. But mostly crowds.)

-I have a minhag that every kos has to be a mixture of at least 2 or 3 kinds of wine.

-I have a minhag to spill wine on my kittel. I’m extra makpid on this one.

-We have a minhag to do a bad job breaking our matzah. One year I put my thumb through it.

-Our official minhag is that for the Mah Nishtanah the youngest kid goes first, except that the youngest kid has never in the history of our family actually gone first. The actual minhag is that the youngest child stands up on a chair, gets shy, shrugs his shoulders for ten minutes, and eventually agrees to do it after his siblings, but even then he doesn’t always do it. And the older siblings have a minhag to speed through it as fast as they can, like they’re embarrassed that they have questions. On Pesach.

-My kids have a minhag every year to try to figure out which of the kids are which of the arbah banim.

-My kids’ school has a minhag not to teach the kids a single thing about Tzey Ul’mad. Even though that’s arguably the main part of Maggid.

-We have a minhag, when a lot of family comes over, that between every paragraph of Maggid, someone goes to the bathroom (or checks on a baby or puts someone to bed or does something in the kitchen or pretends to go to the bathroom but actually looks for the afikoman so he could hide it somewhere else) and we all sit around and wait. And then someone says a D’var Torah.

-We have a minhag to use our pinkies to take out wine for the Makkos, and then to lick our pinkies afterward.

-Whoever makes haggados has a minhag to use ten whole pages for the Makkos even though they take us ten seconds to get through. (Alternatively, we have a minhag to basically fly through until Makkas Bechoros, even though the artists painstakingly recreated every single Makkah on a

separate page. We’re dipping with one hand and turning pages with the other. Should we sit there with our pinkies dripping, listening to a vort on arov?)

-We have a minhag to measure our matzah up against that shiurim picture, and then break it so the shards fit into the corners of the picture. My brotherin-law is Sefardi, so his minhag is to measure it by weight. So he brings his own Pesachdikke scale. (Alternatively, you can use a bathroom scale. First you step onto the scale holding the matzah, then you step onto the scale NOT holding the matzah, all while taking great pains not to bring the matzah into the bathroom.)

-We have a minhag to taste the matzah the first night of Pesach and say that this matzah isn’t as good as last year’s. This tradition dates back thousands of years. Apparently, Matzah has been steadily getting worse. Yeridas hadoros, I guess. No matzah in history has ever been as good as the previous year, going all the way back to Mitzrayim, which had the best matzah ever. Maybe the secret is baking it on your back.

-We all have a minhag to make faces while eating marror. I’m picturing my sons telling their wives to do this. “No, you have to make faces. And then everyone laughs. Zecher l’shibud.”

-We have a minhag to abortedly attempt to make chrein out of the horseradish for the last days.

-My wife has a minhag to buy one single beet for this.

-My wife has a minhag to make way too much charoses. And then to remind me that the minhag is to dip the marror and then shake it off. How do you shake charoses off shreds of marror on a spoon without blinding everyone around you?

-We have a minhag, at the beginning of Shulchan Orech, to eat the egg in salt water and then grab the whole rest of the potato off the Seder plate and fight over it. One person has a minhag to then lose that potato in the salt water and use his bare hands to find it.

-Possibly related, we have a minhag to throw out the salt water and make some fresh for the second night.

-We have a minhag to start Shulchan Orech by saying, “I’m not hungry. I hope there’s not a lot of food.”

-We have a minhag to do whatever we can not to have leftovers on Chol Hamoed. Because leftovers can ruin a Chol Hamoed. By the end of Yom Tov, we’re begging our guests to take our leftovers, but they’re already out the door. They’re sneaking upstairs right after Maariv so they can pack. “Yeah, we’ll say Havdalah at home.”

-My kids had a minhag at some point to hide the afikoman on the highest shelf they could possibly reach, which was directly in my line of vision.

-We have a minhag not to say any of the divrei Torah about bentching during bentching.

-We have a minhag, the rest of Yom Tov, to bentch out of coffee-themed

haggados from the supermarket.

-Our kids have a minhag to insist that Eliyahu Hanavi drank from his kos. Then we pour it back so we can reuse it the next day.

-We have a minhag to fly through Nirtzah. One year growing up, I tried saying divrei Torah, and people were not receptive.

-We have a minhag to remind everyone to count Sefirah right before Echad Mi Yodea. (Do you know why people do it right before Echad Mi Yodea? Because we’re scared to do Echad Mi Yodea first. Someone is going to say, “Who knows one? I know one! One is today’s… Oops.”)

-We have a minhag for someone to announce, on the first night of Sefirah, that they didn’t Omer the previous night. On some years, someone says, “Last night was zero!” and then someone else says, “No, last night was 354!” And then someone says, “Oh no! I haven’t counted since Shavuos!”

-We have a minhag to intend to make animal noises for Chad Gadya. Until we get to the stick.

-We have a minhag to look at the clock as we finish the Seder, like when we finish has any kind of significance. Like everyone’s leaving Mitzrayim, and we don’t want to miss it. Or like we’re waiting for the year that we go, “Hey, it’s z’man Kriyas Shema! We made it! It’s a good thing we zoomed through Nirtzah!”

Spring cleaning tips and hacks

22

Baking Soda to clean & freshen

YOUR HOME 20 WAYS TO USE

Baking soda isn’t just for baking—try using it for these household cleaning uses, too.

Baking soda might just be the most versatile staple in your pantry. Also known as sodium bicarbonate, baking soda is an alkaline compound that produces small bubbles of carbon dioxide gas when mixed with an acid (like vinegar, lemon juice, or buttermilk), making it ideal for leavening cakes, breads, and cookies to fluffy perfection.

But its uses go far beyond raising our favorite cake and cookie recipes. Baking soda’s naturally abrasive texture and chemical properties make it ideal for household cleaning uses as well, like scrubbing and scouring dirt, deodorizing bad smells, and lifting stubborn stains. “Baking soda is an economical and environmentally friendly cleaning option,” says Marla Mock, president of Molly Maid, a Neighborly company. “It’s also a versatile cleaner that can tackle various cleaning tasks.”

However, you should practice some caution with using baking soda, as that abrasive texture is not appropriate for cleaning everything in your home. “Baking soda can be abrasive, so it’s not suitable for cleaning glass surfaces like mirrors or windows, certain flat stove tops, or finished wood furniture/floors,” says Mock. You also shouldn’t use it to clean aluminum cookware, natural stone surfaces, gold-plated items, electronic devices, or precious gemstones like

pearls and opals. “Avoid cleaning surfaces that may easily scratch, such as aluminum or marble,” says Katie Dills, senior vice president of The Cleaning Authority. Baking soda also has the capacity to react with some materials like aluminum to cause discoloration.

DEODORIZE TRASH CANS

Trash cans naturally become quite malodorous over time. But you can combat the smells emanating from your trash can by sprinkling a bit of baking soda inside. “You can also mix it with water and use it as a spray to clean and deodorize the inside,” says Alicia Sokolowski, president and co-CEO of Aspen Clean.

REMOVE COFFEE AND TEA STAINS

Baking soda is great for whitening and removing stains, and sometimes nothing is tougher than coffee and tea stains left behind on our favorite ceramic mugs. Simply sprinkle baking soda into your mug and gently scrub the stain away with a damp sponge, says Sokolowski.

CLEAN OVEN RACKS

Oven racks can take a beating. Grease, oil, crumbs, and more can easily become stuck on during the cooking process. “Soak oven racks in a bathtub with baking soda and hot water,” Sokolowski says. “After a few hours, scrub them clean with a brush.”

UNCLOG DRAINS

Generally speaking, you’d typically want to avoid mixing baking soda with an

acid like vinegar because it produces bubbles, and you could be looking at combustion of some kind. But that reaction comes in handy when you have a stubborn drain clog. Sprinkle 1/2 cup of baking soda down the drain and follow it with 1/2 cup of white vinegar. Cover the drain and let it sit for 30 minutes. “Follow it with hot water to flush away debris,” says Sokolowski.

CLEAN GROUT

Baking soda’s natural abrasiveness really shines as a grout cleaner. You can make a simple paste with baking soda and water, then apply it to darkened grout lines and scrub with a toothbrush.

FRESHEN TOILET BOWLS

Of course, you could use a specific toilet bowl cleaner for your toilet cleaning needs, but a more natural and eco-friendly way to go is to use baking soda to remove stains and freshen the bowl. Sprinkle baking soda into your toilet bowl and let it sit for a bit before scrubbing it with a toilet brush.

PRE-SOAK STAINED LAUNDRY

Pre-treating with baking soda is an easy and effective ways to help lift stubborn stains on your laundry. “Soak your clothes in hot water mixed with baking soda for a couple of hours or overnight,” says Sokolowski.

Things to Never Mix With Baking Soda

Of course, you want to be safe when using baking soda to clean in and around your home, so be sure to never mix baking soda with the following items.

Hydrogen

Chemical

Alcohol

In some cases, mixing these agents (like with alcohol or other cleaning agents) just reduces baking soda’s effectiveness. But in other cases, harmful chemical reactions can occur—oxygen gas or other toxic fumes can be formed when mixed with hydrogen peroxide in an enclosed container, ammonia, chlorine bleach, or chemical cleaners). In most situations, you’ll only need water to mix with baking soda to achieve your desired cleaning results.

BOOST LAUNDRY DETERGENT

Additionally, you can add baking soda to your laundry cycle to give your regular detergent a bit of a cleaning action boost. “Adding baking soda to your load of laundry is perfect for removing odors from clothes and brightening your white laundry,” says Dills.

CLEAN THE WASHER DRUM

Baking soda’s myriad laundry uses don’t stop with clothing—it’s also effective for cleaning your washing machine. “Run an empty washer cycle with baking soda to clean and deodorize the washing machine drum,” says Sokolowski.

SCRUB POTS AND PANS

Scour off stubborn baked-on bits with baking soda. “Baking soda is great for cleaning your oven, pots, pans, and other cookware,” says Dills. “Simply make a paste with baking soda and water and apply to your cookware. Allow it to sit 15 to 30 minutes in your cookware before scrubbing away the residue.”

CLEANING SHOWER DOORS

Shower doors are susceptible to limescale and mineral deposit buildup. Get your shower doors sparkling again with a combination cleaning of vinegar and baking soda. According to Tommy Patterson, director of new product development and technical training at Glass Doctor, a Neighborly company, first, dip paper towels into hot white vinegar and attach them to the door and track, letting them sit there for 30 to 60 minutes. “The slight acidity of vinegar

allows it to penetrate and loosen mineral deposits,” he says. Then, using a damp rag or sponge generously sprinkled with baking soda, gently wipe down the doors. “Avoid vigorous scrubbing to prevent scratching,” says Patterson.

Lastly, rinse the doors off with distilled water to remove the vinegar and baking soda. “If limescale deposits persist, repeat the baking soda scrub until all buildup is removed,” he says.

FRESHEN CARPETS

Take advantage of baking soda’s deodorizing power by using it to clean your carpets. Sprinkle some down on the carpet and let it sit for a few minute before vacuuming it up.

SPRUCE UP YOUR MATTRESS

Cleaning your mattress is paramount for good health (you spend quite a bit of time in there, after all). Deodorize your mattress by sprinkling baking soda on it and letting it sit for a few minutes before vacuuming. Or, if there are stains that need to be removed, utilize vinegar with your baking soda, and first spray the stain with vinegar before adding a sprinkling of baking soda. Cover with a towel and let it sit for a couple of hours before taking a vacuum to it.

REMOVE SHOE ODORS

Neutralize less-than-appealing shoe smells by sprinkling baking soda inside your shoes. Remember to empty your shoes of baking soda before you slip them back on your feet.

SCRUB DOWN STOVETOPS

Stovetops can become a mess with stuckon bits of food or grease. Cut through the grime and restore your stovetop to pristine condition by scrubbing it with a baking soda and water paste. Just be aware that certain stovetops (like smooth glass stovetops) could be susceptible to scratching, so use another type of cleaner for these.

CLEAN YOUR WOOD CUTTING BOARDS

Maintain wooden cutting boards by scrubbing them with baking soda and half a lemon to lighten stains and remove odors.

ABSORB REFRIGERATOR ODORS

To neutralize odors in your refrigerator, you don’t even have to take the baking soda out of its packaging. Most baking soda boxes come with a mesh side insert so that you can remove the cardboard box covering to expose the mesh side. Simply place one of these in your refrigerator and let it work its deodorizing magic.

CLEAN STAINLESS STEEL

Refresh and clean dull stainless steel sinks, fixtures, and appliances with baking soda. For sinks, sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda in the sink, and use a damp microfiber cloth or sponge to scrub stains and areas with buildup before rinsing with cool water. For appliances and fixtures like faucets, start by sprinkling baking soda onto a damp rag, and buffing the stainless steel gently to clean and brighten.

SHINE SILVER

A simple baking soda paste made with just water is all you need to restore silver to its natural shine in a natural and ecofriendly way. Immerse your silver items in the paste and let them sit for a few minutes (up to 10 minutes for heavily tarnished silver). Then, rinse with cool water and buff gently with a cloth.

The one exception to this is if your silver has oxidized with a patina and you’d like to keep the patina. “Baking soda can remove the desired patina on certain silver items, such as jewelry or decorative pieces,” says Sokolowski. “It’s best to use a silver cleaner or polishing cloth for maintaining silver with a desired patina.”

REMOVE STAINS FROM PLASTIC FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS

Food storage containers have been known to become stained after several uses with things like red sauce. When running them through the top rack of your dishwasher isn’t cutting it anymore, fill the container with a sprinkling of baking soda and water and let it sit overnight. In the morning, rinse the baking soda paste out and revel in your newly stain-free containers.

26 smart uses for vinegararound the house

A bottle of white distilled vinegar can eliminate odors, sanitize surfaces, and more.

If you’re looking for a multitasking cleaning product you can use for everything from whitening laundry and washing windows to driving out pests and sanitizing surfaces, it’s time to stock up on distilled white vinegar. This pantry staple makes easy work of a multitude of household chores, without the use of harsh commercial chemicals.

“Vinegar is a good cleaning agent because it is acidic (with a pH value of 2.4), making it effective for breaking down mineral deposits and stains,” says Marla Mock, president of Molly Maid, a Neighborly company. “When diluted, it can be a safe and environmentally friendly cleaner.”

You can use vinegar to clean a host of things in your home, such as countertops, glassware, shower heads, and toilets. It also works to brighten your laundry and deter pests, like ants. And while you can use other types of vinegar like apple cider vinegar to clean, you should stick with plain white vinegar. “White vinegar is the most versatile choice for cleaning because it is clear and has a neutral scent,” says Alicia Sokolowski, president and co-CEO of AspenClean. “It’s ideal for most cleaning applications, including descaling, disinfecting, and removing odors.”

Of course, there are some things that vinegar should not be used on. “You should avoid using vinegar on natural stone surfaces, as it can etch the stone,” says Mock. Steer clear of using vinegar on hardwood floors, cast iron and aluminum cookware, delicate jewelry, egg stains or spills, and electronics as well.

Deodorize the Room

“Vinegar can help neutralize odors in the home, such as in the kitchen or refrigerator,” says Katie Dills, senior vice president, The Cleaning Authority. The best part? All you have to do is leave a dish filled with 1/2 inch of white vinegar in the offensive-smelling room for it to work its magic. Leave it in the room until the smell dissipates completely.

Dissolve Rust

Rust can be a major pain to remove, but using white vinegar makes it easy. For smaller rusted items, soak them in a bowl of white vinegar overnight. For larger items, pour white vinegar over it, let it sit, and rub clean.

Keep Colors Bright

Using vinegar in your laundry is a natural way to keep your clothes bright and fresh. Add 1/2 cup of diluted white vinegar to your laundry load right before the final rinse cycle to help remove stains, eliminate odors, and remove mildew.

Whiten Your Whites

If you prefer not to use bleach in your laundry cycles, consider vinegar to whiten your clothes. Vinegar’s natural acidic properties lend itself to whitening fabrics. Add 1/2 cup of diluted white vinegar to your laundry cycle along with your detergent to help whiten dingy whites.

Clean Faucets

“Vinegar can dissolve limescale, soap scum, and mineral deposits on faucets,” says Dills. To do so, soak a paper towel in vinegar, then drape it over your faucet. Leave it to sit for about an hour, then wipe away the built-up crud.

Clean Windows and Mirrors

One of the common issues with cleaning windows and mirrors is leaving streaks behind, but using white vinegar can help with that. “Diluted vinegar (1 part vinegar to 1 part water) cleans glass surfaces, mirrors, and windows well,” says Sokolowski. “Spray it on a clean microfiber cloth and wipe the surface. Always wipe with the same pattern for mirrors and windows: the S movement (from top to bottom).”

Descale Your Coffee Maker

If you can’t remember that last time you cleaned your coffee maker, reach for the vinegar. “Vinegar is excellent for removing mineral deposits and scale buildup in appliances like kettles and coffee makers,” Sokolowski says. “Mix equal parts of vinegar and water, run the mixture through the appliance, and don’t forget to rinse thoroughly.”

Deodorize Trash Cans

Yikes—we all know that our kitchen trash cans can harbor some pretty unwelcoming smells. Scrub the

inside of your trash can with a mixture of white vinegar and water using a long handled brush. Rinse well, then dry.

Eliminate Hard-Water Stains on Glass

“Vinegar’s acidity is effective at breaking down hard water stains, limescale, grime, and stains,” Dills says. To bring your glass back from cloudy white stains, use a clean rag with distilled white vinegar on it, and rub the item. The vinegar will help remove calcium and magnesium buildup.

Get Rid of Coffee and Tea Stains

Everyone has their favorite mug for sipping hot coffee and tea, and it’s likely showing signs of wear with stains. Fill your mug halfway with white vinegar and the other with hot water, allowing the mixture to then sit for about 10 minutes. Drain the mixture and scrub your mug to bring it back to its former glory.

Remove Mildew and Mold

“Vinegar can help remove mildew and mold from bathroom tiles, shower curtains, and other surfaces,” says Sokolowski. “Spray or apply vinegar directly, let it sit for a while, scrub, and rinse.”

Unclog Drains

Unclog a slow drain with vinegar and baking soda. (This is a case where adding baking soda is useful, so long as you don’t mix these two in a closed container!) “Mix baking soda and vinegar to create a natural drain cleaner,” Sokolowski says. “Pour it down the drain, let it fizz and work for about 15 minutes, then flush with hot water to clear clogs and remove odors.”

Fabric Softener Replacement

Vinegar’s laundry prowess doesn’t stop at whitening and deodorizing—it can also act as an effective natural fabric softener. “Add 1/2 cup of white vinegar to your washing machine’s rinse cycle,” says Sokolowski. “It can help soften clothes, reduce static, and remove detergent residue.”

Remove Stickers and Labels

Trying to scrape off stickers and labels is notoriously hard, and there always seems to be residue left behind. Simply soak the labels and stickers in white vinegar, then peel off.

Showerhead Cleaner

“Vinegar is effective for removing hard water deposits and stains from showerheads and faucets in the bathroom,” says Mock. To clean your showerhead with vinegar, use this method from Sokolowski: “Fill a plastic bag with vinegar and secure it around your showerhead with a rubber band. Leave it for several hours to remove mineral deposits and improve water flow.”

Neutralize Pet Odors

We love our furry friends, but pet accidents are bound to happen from time to time. First, blot the accident up, then clean the affected area using a mixture of vinegar and water. The vinegar will neutralize the odor and help prevent your furry family members from having a repeat accident.

Clean the Dishwasher

Your dishwasher is a workhorse when it comes to cleaning your dishes, but the appliance itself needs to be cleaned every once in a while as well. Run your empty dishwasher with a cup of vinegar to remove odors and mineral deposit buildup.

Clean the Washing Machine

Similarly, your washing machine can benefit from a vinegar rinse. Simply add 1 cup of white vinegar to an empty washing machine and run it as normal.

DIY a General All-Purpose Cleaner

A handy application of vinegar is to use it as an allnatural, all-purpose cleaner. “Mix 1/2 cup of vinegar with 4 cups of warm water to create an all-purpose surface cleaner,” Dills says. Use this mixture to clean everything from windows and glass to sinks and appliances.

For disinfectant purposes, use a 1:1 ratio, says Dills. “You can mix a 1:1 ratio of vinegar and water to wipe down door knobs, handles, switches, etc. around the home,” she says.

Clean Floors

Vinegar can effectively clean and sanitize floors, but make sure you only use it on specific types of flooring. Hardwood floors cannot be cleaned with vinegar, but tile can, for instance. “For tile, mix 1/2 cup of vinegar with 1 gallon of water. Use this solution to mop your floors,” says Sokolowski.

Drive Away Pests

Keep ants at bay with vinegar. “Vinegar can deter ants,” says Mock. To do so, mix equal amounts of vinegar and water in a spray bottle, then spritz your vinegar solution any place that ants tend to gather, like kitchen corners or crevices.

Stainless Steel Appliance Cleaner

Streak-free stainless steel shine can be had with vinegar. “To clean stainless steel appliances, apply vinegar with a microfiber cloth, then wipe with the stainless-steel grain to remove fingerprints and smudges,” Sokolowski says.

Kill Weeds

Besides repelling ants, vinegar is an effective weed killer as well. Vinegar’s acidity kills weeds by breaking down the cell walls, while also removing moisture, causing them to shrivel. Make a simple DIY weed killer with 1 cup of salt, 1 gallon of vinegar, and 1 tablespoon of dish soap.

Clean Bath Toys

Children’s bath toys are susceptible to mold and mildew growth from all of the moisture they’re around. Give these toys a bath of their own

in a large bucket or bowl filled with warm water. Add 1/2 cup of vinegar for every gallon of water, and allow the toys to soak for 10 minutes. Then rinse and dry them.

Shine Silver

Silver can easily be restored to its natural beauty with vinegar. To clean tarnished silver, buff your silver items with a soft microfiber rag dipped in vinegar. Rinse the pieces and dry them.

Get Rid of Fruit Flies

Pesky fruit flies won’t be a problem anymore with just a small bowl of vinegar covered in plastic wrap. Poke

22 Brilliant Ideas for Organizing Kitchen Cabinets

By Jessica Bennett

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Slide-Out Kitchen Cabinet Shelves

If items tend to get lost at the back of your cabinets, try this organizing solution. Trade out fixed cabinet shelves for ones that effortlessly slide out. With sliding shelves, you can see and access items at the back of the shelf as easily as dry goods at the front. A shallow lip around each shelf keeps supplies from falling off.

$15 Fix!

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Organizing kitchen cabinets is essential for efficient cooking, dining, and entertaining. Discover smart, budgetfriendly solutions to tidy up cluttered shelves and drawers, maximizing your kitchen’s potential.

Narrow Kitchen Cabinet Organization Ideas

Make a sliver of space beside the range more functional for storing your favorite flavoring ingredients. Add a pullout rack inside the door to use as a kitchen cabinet spice organizer. If you have more room, install a turntable ($15, The Container Store) on one shelf so you can spin bottles of oils and vinegars into view. Decant other foods and spices into clear or labeled containers for quick inventory and easy stacking.

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How to Organize Glass Kitchen Cabinets

Glass-front doors put cabinet interiors on display, so you’ll want to make sure these areas are neatly organized. First, edit down your dishware collection to avoid overcrowding the cabinets. Arrange pretty plates and bowls into stacks and line up mugs in neat rows. Consider storing bulky or unattractive items you’d rather not display, such as large stock pots, in a different location.

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Kitchen Cabinet Recycling Zone

You’re more likely to recycle when bins for paper, plastic, and glass are easily within reach. Stow these containers neatly inside cabinets near the kitchen cleanup zone. These pullout cabinets feature cutouts sized to hold plastic waste receptacles that are easy to lift out and empty when needed.

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Kitchen Drawer Organizers

Recycling Made Easy!

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Kitchen Cabinet Organization Ideas

When organizing food items in kitchen cabinets, it’s best to sort everything by category and designate specific areas for each type of item. For example, store favorite snacks on a cabinet shelf that’s easily within reach of all family members. Dedicate another area for breakfast items like cereals and pancake mix. To boost organization, add printed labels and use baskets to corral smaller loose items.

Keep items from rattling around inside drawers by adding an insert or drawer divider. The various compartments help maintain order so you quickly spot what you need. Fit small containers between dividers when you have especially tiny objects to corral.

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Kitchen Sink Cabinet Organizer

Intrusive plumbing pipes, the sink bottom, and pullout hoses can make organizing the kitchen sink cabinet a particular challenge. Choose stackable acrylic or wire shelving that fits beside and below the sink U pipe to make the most of available space. Some wire bin units slide out to make it easy to retrieve items at the back. Add storage bins, shelves, and hooks inside doors for more space, and consider including some specialty tools such as a holder for plastic grocery bags ($30, Bed Bath & Beyond). To boost storage, look for a kit that transforms the false drawer fronts on the front of the sink cabinet into tilt-out bins for stowing kitchen sponges and scrubbers.

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Cleaning Supply Cabinet Organization

Most of us think to stash cleaning supplies under the sink, but larger tools won’t fit in that tight space. Consider using a vertical cabinet to store brooms, mops, and related cleaning supplies. It will move your gear from the coat closet or laundry room and put them where you need them most: the kitchen.

$10 Hack!

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Organizing Dishes in Kitchen Cabinets

Piles of heavy dishes make it difficult to grab anything except the topmost item. Instead, outfit a cabinet with a plate rack ($10, The Container Store) that allows you to file dishes vertically for easy access. This lets you pull out just the plates you need without sorting through the entire stack.

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Kitchen Pantry Organization

A walk-in or reach-in pantry with plenty of shelf space is a luxury, but it still needs to be organized to support all the cooking and entertaining you do. Group like ingredients and products on labeled shelves to make it easy for anyone in the family to find or replace items. For example, dedicate pantry zones for paper products, canned goods, cereals, and baking supplies.

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Open Shelving and Cabinet Organization

Take advantage of vertical wall space with open shelving that extends to the ceiling. Open shelves let you display your prettiest kitchenware while making everything easy to spot and retrieve or put away. If you don’t want to tear out existing upper cabinets but like the idea of open shelves, simply remove a few doors and paint cabinet interiors to set off your belongings.

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While some wine lovers need a full cellar to house their bottle collection, most of us are content to keep a few favorites on hand. Build storage space into your cabinetry with a wine bottle holder insert. You can also retrofit an existing cabinet by removing the door and having an insert built into the space.

Kitchen Cabinet Wine Bottle Organizer 13

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Best Way to Organize Kitchen Cabinets

Various types of dishes, cookware, and utensils require different kitchen cabinet organization ideas. Without a specific organizing system, your cabinets can end up looking like a jumbled mess.

Cabinet Organization for Pots and Pans

A deep drawer is a smart organizing idea for pots and pans near the stovetop. You can also use drawers to hold dishware by adding dish divider dowels ($98, Wayfair) to keep plates, bowls, and saucers stacked tightly in place. Make sure the drawer is equipped with quality sliding hardware that can hold the weight of dishes when the drawer is fully extended.

You’ll need a place to store cutting boards, cookie sheets, muffin tins, and other items that stack neatly on their sides. Choose a cabinet near your prep zone and add dividers that allow these items to stand on end. Removing the cabinet door makes them even easier to access.

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How to Organize Food Storage Containers

Prevent an avalanche of food storage containers every time you open your cupboard door. Divide your stash of plastic into stacks of containers and lids. Stack containers into each other like nesting dolls, and store them in a larger tray. Lids can also be corralled by using containers

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Kitchen Cabinet Organization Ideas for Linens

Install shallow drawers behind a pair of cabinet doors to make the most of your storage space. Stashing these items in the kitchen ensures they’re readily accessible when dinner is ready. Arrange like with like, separating tablecloths, napkins, runners, and more between drawers or with dividers.

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Tiered Kitchen Cabinet Organizer

Most kitchen cabinets include just one or two shelves, which often isn’t enough to keep all your items organized. Give cabinets a boost with an added shelf organizer ($10, The Container Store) that can bring order to pots, pans, skillets, and lids. Organizing all lids together allows pots to rest inside each other, and you an opportunity to use another storage container for lids.

Kitchen Cabinet Appliance Garages Quick Trick!

Kitchens are hardworking spaces, but that doesn’t mean you want to keep everything on the counter in plain sight. Install an appliance garage and you can park your most frequently used appliances behind closed doors. Have a professional electrician install an outlet inside the garage, and you can keep appliances tucked away in one place.

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Custom Kitchen Cabinet Organization

Get creative with kitchen cabinet organization ideas that suit your specific needs. Semicustom and custom cabinets can be outfitted with nearly any specialty hardware to add unique functions outside of food and dishware storage. A basic drawer in the kitchen island, for example, can be designed to pull out into an ironing board.

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Corner Kitchen Cabinet Organizer

Small items can easily disappear into the depths of corner cabinets. To keep items in sight and easy to grab, add a corner kitchen cabinet organizer, such as a multi-tier lazy Susan insert ($30, The Container Store). If you don’t need another food storage solution, check out recycling and trash bin inserts to make the most of your corner space.

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How to Organize a Kitchen Snack Cabinet

Individual servings of prepackaged snacks can be slippery and impossible to stack. To create an organized kitchen snack cabinet, gather a few small containers, such as trays, baskets, or bins, to hold similar items in your pantry. You’ll also be able to tell at a glance when it’s time to go grocery shopping again.

Snack Stacks!

Health Section The

1 2 3 4 Digestive ease tips for Pesach Get fruity

Is organic produce better than conventional?

Tips from a dietitian to help you feel lighter and more energetic this Pesach

DIGESTIVE EASE TIPS

Instead of... eat...

Regular Wheat

Oat Matza or Spelt Matza

Grape Juice

Potato Starch

Cane Sugar

Butter and Cheese Spreads

Organic Grape Juice

Almond Flour

Coconut Sugar

The Pesach season is typically one of indulgence, whether it’s on heavier foods laden in sugar and oils or saturated fats and fried food. While that’s occasionally ok, it’s helpful to know that you can still enjoy your Pesach with your traditional cuisine while using options that are lighter on the digestive tract and blood sugar. This can also prevent the usual constipation that often accompanies this particular Yom Tov. I’m happy to present to you some healthier swaps to your typical ingredients and staples we rely on for Peach.

Cottonseed Oil Egg

Lukshen Eggs in Cakes

Chocolate Bars

Potatoe Side Dishes Fried Dishes

These swaps are ones that I’ve used over the years with my family and it’s helped us feel our best over the Yom Tov season, while not compromising in the kitchen and enjoying delicious meals. Wishing you a Chag Kosher V'sameach!

BY SURI SPREI, HHP, NC

With Pesach upon us, summer is right around the corner. Summer is the season of sweet, juicy and bountiful fruits. Let’s discuss this wondrous food group a bit and discover how unbelievably generous they are in helping us live a healthy and vibrant life. Very often my clients will ask me for snack ideas for the long summer days. I ask them, how much fruit are you eating. Most of the time it’s way too little. I tell them, the more fruits you will eat the less sugar you will cheat. Not that having some sugar is cheating but you get the gist.

The body thrives on glucose. Every cell in our body actually runs on glucose which is the sugar found in fruit. That’s the reason we will crave sugar when stressed or highly active. Children also gravitate towards sweets and carbs for that reason. Mothers milk is predominately sugar water with a bit of fat and protein and that’s what a baby will double and triple it’s size with. If you look at monkeys who are biologically the closest to humans you will notice that they will feast on mainly fruits throughout the day. And they aren’t weak animals, quite the opposite; they are powerful and strong. Let’s learn and observe from Mother Nature on what helps us flourish as humans.

Listen to your body

Your body has sweet cravings for a reason. It’s not looking for that candy bar or the cup of soda on your dinner table. It’s looking for glucose found in fruit. Raw honey is also a great source of glucose but we will focus on fruits. When you give your body plenty of fruits you will be nourishing your body deeply and all your sugar cravings will melt away as quickly as they came.

The nervous system waits for this glucose and uses it to maintain stability. That’s why when one is undergoing trauma or stress they will seek lots of sugar in any form. This glucose helps neurotransmitters operate optimally and it keeps the adrenal glands balanced. Fruits contain way more than sugar too. They have ultra hydrating water, vitamins, minerals, pectin, fiber and antioxidants. Talking about antioxidants, fruits have the highest level of antioxidants on the planet.

So if you’re looking for an anti aging food get into more fruits! It quite literally reverses aging because of its high levels of antioxidants. Antioxidants stop oxidation in the cells causing the aging process.

The recipe I’ll be sharing really isn’t a recipe per say but a fun and creative way to enhance any family picnic or bbq in a healthy way. Your children can make them with you and they’ll love sharing them with friends. It will be devoured guaranteed.

Rainbow fruit Kebobs:

2 mangoes cubed

9 peeled and sliced kiwis

2 cups cubed watermelon

12 wooden skewers

Thread fruit by alternating mango kiwi and watermelon twice per skewer.

Here are some of my favorite fruits to focus on:

Apples

Loaded with pectin and fiber this fruit is your number one digestive aide. It will sweep out the intestines like a broom and help with weight loss and constipation. It’s also a star when it comes to nausea. Try eating an apple after a heavy meal and enjoy the easy digestion it will provide.

Bananas

Easy to grab and go this fruit makes a great hiking trail energy boost. Babies start out on bananas because of how incredibly light it is on the digestive system. It therefore is wonderful for those with abdominal pain and digestive disorders. Bananas relax and calm the body down due to its high levels of tryptophan. Try giving bananas to your children when they come home from day camp to get their blood sugars stable in a healthy way.

Berries

Antioxidants are the highest in berries of all fruits. They make great finger food for toddlers and fun to pick during the summer months. Berries are great brain food and are helpful for any neurological illness. Berries protect the heart because they flush fat deposits in the veins and arteries.

Mangoes

If you have insomnia or have a child that has a hard time settling down to sleep try having a ripe mango 20 minutes to bedtime. They have high levels of magnesium and other helpful minerals that help the body truly rest. They also have impressive levels of beta carotene which strengthen and support the skin. They are so delicious in the summer, nothing beats a juicy ripe mango in the heat.

IS ORGANIC PRODUCE BETTER THAN CONVENTIONAL?

BY SURI SPREI, HHP, NC

So, is organic worth the hype? Is there truth to it or is it just a trend that stores are after to attract consumers? The debate surrounding organic produce versus conventional produce has gained significant attention in recent years as consumers seek healthier and more sustainable food choices for themselves and their families. We have seen an impressive uptick in local Kosher Supermarkets carrying organic produce and organic shelf items. Organic farming practices' natural methods prohibit the use of synthetic chemicals, while conventional farming aims for high yields and efficient production. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of organic and conventional produce and unravel the truth vs the myth which will help you make an informed decision about your dietary preferences.

1. Reduced Exposure to Pesticides:

One of the primary reasons consumers choose organic produce is to minimize exposure to synthetic pesticides. Organic farming relies on natural pest control methods, crop rotation, and the use of organic-approved pesticides. This approach reduces the risk of pesticide residues on the produce and potential health effects associated with long-term exposure to these chemicals. In contrast, conventional farming utilizes synthetic pesticides to control pests, which can leave residues on the produce. However, it is important to note that pesticide residues on conventional produce generally fall within regulatory safety limits. And I often have clients that ask me if they can still improve their health on conventional produce and I always respond with a resounding YES! That being said, many people struggling with chronic health conditions will opt to go organic and do away with any chemicals on their food to speed up their progress.

2. Environmental Impact:

Organic farming practices prioritize environmental sustainability by promoting soil health, biodiversity, and water conservation. Organic farmers focus on building soil fertility through composting, cover cropping, and crop rotation. They avoid the use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, which can have negative effects on soil quality and contribute to water pollution. In contrast, conventional farming often relies on synthetic inputs, which can lead to soil degradation, nutrient runoff, and harm to beneficial insects and wildlife. Many farmers are making the switch to organic farming as they see their soil is healthier and can withstand much more. While this won't directly impact you as the consumer, it really does as the soil is way superior leading to a higher quality product.

3. Nutritional Content:

The nutritional composition of organic and conventional produce is a subject of ongoing research. Some studies suggest that organic produce may contain higher levels of certain nutrients and antioxidants. This can help for those using organic fruits and vegetables to reverse health conditions like thyroid disorders and chronic fatigue syndrome. However, the differences are often nuanced and can vary depending on factors such as crop variety, ripeness, and storage conditions. It is important to note that a well-balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits and vegetables, whether organic or conventional, remains crucial for overall health. As a health practitioner I will often encourage my clients to focus on avoiding the dirty dozen and do the best they can with the rest.

4. Cost and Accessibility:

One consideration when comparing organic and conventional produce is the cost and accessibility. Organic produce is generally

more expensive than conventional produce due to higher production costs, certification requirements, and lower yields. This higher price can make organic options less accessible to some consumers. However, the availability of organic produce has been increasing in recent years, and it is now more widely available in many grocery stores and farmers' markets.

The question of whether organic produce is better than conventional produce will continue being a controversial topic.

It depends on individual priorities, including concerns about pesticide exposure, environmental impact, and budget. Organic produce offers potential benefits in terms of reduced pesticide exposure and environmental sustainability. However, conventional produce can still be part of a healthy diet, as it generally falls within safety limits for pesticide residues. Ultimately, making informed choices, considering personal preferences and values, and consuming a balanced variety of fruits and vegetables are key to maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

DIRTY DOZEN

Is a good guide to help you navigate which fruits and or vegetables to focus on.

Strawberries

Peaches

Kale

Spinach

Peaches

Pears

Nectarines

Apples

Grapes

Peppers

Cherries

Blueberries

Green beans

THE FRUIT AND VEGETABLE TESTING DATA

The following 19 items were included in the fruit and vegetable testing data from the USDA and FDA but do not fall into either the Dirty Dozen or Clean Fifteen lists. I would consider these fruits and vegetables questionable and you should buy organic if you have access to it and it's within your budget.

Tomatoes

Winter squash

Celery

Cherry tomatoes

CLEAN 15

These 15 items had the lowest amounts of pesticide residues, according to EWG’s analysis of the most recent USDA data. You can purchase conventional for these without any hesitation.

Carrots

Watermelon

Sweet potatoes

Mangoes

Mushrooms

Cabbage

Kiwis

Honeydew

Asparagus

Sweet peas

Papayas

Onions

Pineapples

Sweet corn

Avocados

Lettuce

Tangerines

Cucumbers

Broccoli

Zucchini

Plums

Eggplant

Raspberries

Grapefruits

Snap peas

Oranges

Cantaloupe

Bananas

Cauliflower

Potatoes

To conclude, organic produce is superior to conventional produce in many ways however it's important not to get dogmatic about it and simply use this information as a guide to do the best you can with the access and availability you have. In many ways it's more important to get as many fruits and vegetables into your daily rotation and not hold back in instances where only conventional is available. I hope this sheds some light on this very hot topic!

For now, Stay healthy and eat your salads folks!

Tips from a dietitian to help you feel lighter and more energetic this Pesach

By Esti Asher, MS, RDN, LD

Although filled with beauty, family bonding and a lot of other positive factors, oftentimes Pesach meals may leave us feeling uncomfortably full, heavy and lethargic. Beyond the foods and shiurim that we are obligated to eat, (speak with your Rav regarding any questions you may have about shiurim, etc.) we have the ability to choose foods and engage in behaviors that can help us reach our goal of feeling lighter and more energetic.

If you love macaroons and matzah pizza or have a nostalgic connection to rainbow cake and matzah brie, have no fear. I am not here to tell you to avoid any foods, but rather to choose your meals and snacks wisely. Not only is the food we eat connected to how we feel, but also additional habits, behaviors and nuances of when we eat our food have an impact on our energy levels and beyond.

Esti Asher, MS, RDN, LD is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and member of the Nutritional Advisory Board of Wellspring Magazine. Esti is passionate about helping women reach their ultimate health and wellbeing potential inside and out. She shares credible, clear and inspiring nutrition information with women via her virtual private practice. Esti’s kind and positive approach not only benefits her clients, it also often has a positive ripple effect on their loved ones. To contact Esti with feedback or inquiries regarding her nutritional services, please e-mail her at: esti@estiashernutrition.com or visit estiashernutrition.com.

Disclaimer: The information in this article is for informational purposes only. This article is not meant to be used as Medical Nutrition Therapy and thus is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any health conditions. Please consult with your physician if you have specific questions regarding your health.

Each individual’s body reacts differently, but the following are 6 tips that usually have a universally beneficial outcome! Try them out – your digestive system and overall wellbeing will thank you!

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Increase your physical activity. Whether this means taking a walk after meals or planning Chol HaMoed trips that involve you being on your feet, moving your body will help the efficiency of your digestive system and may also help you feel lighter and more energetic.

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Drink a lot of water. This is a common tip that is helpful in just about every area of our health. Drinking enough water has so many benefits, including an increase in energy and helping to flush out and clean your system. Aim to drink the amount of ounces that equals half of your body weight.

Emphasize fruits and vegetables. The high water and fiber content of fruits and vegetables helps prevent bloat and heaviness, leaving you feeling lighter and more satisfied. Eating an increased amount of fruits and vegetables also means that you will, by default, eat less of the processed and heavy foods that can zap us of our energy and may negatively impact our health.

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Include protein in your meals and snacks. Making sure to include protein when you sit down to eat – whether for a meal or a snack – will help with satiety. When we feel satisfied, we are less likely to eat bigger portions of foods that are high in fat and sugar and may consequently result in us feeling more energized and lighter on our feet.

Try to minimize eating after dinner or late at night. Eating late usually leaves us feeling uncomfortably full both at night and the following morning. If you do not wake up feeling hungry for breakfast, then you probably ate too much, too late, the night before.

6

Sleep. Do not underestimate the value of getting enough sleep. With busy days and nights leading up to Pesach being a common occurrence among many of us, we may go into Pesach feeling tired and sleep deprived. Make an effort to rejuvenate and sleep enough (via a good night’s sleep or even naps to catch up, if your schedule allows). The amount of sleep that we get has an effect on our body in many ways, including our hormone levels; not enough sleep can definitely leave us feeling tired and lethargic. A boost in sleep is sure to lead to a boost in energy.

Recipes Pesach

Pesach Crackers

Pesach Blondies

Pesach Egg Crepes

Pesach Apple Pie

Grape Juice Sorbet

Best Coffee Ice Cream

Sweet Potato

Stuffed Chicken

Capons

Onion Crusted

Chuck Eye Roast

Weinstein Chantzy

chantzyw@

Hi I’m Chantzy - I’m super excited to share with you some of my most favorite Pesach recipes. Years ago, I used to spend so much time trying new recipes each year - but now I have it pretty much down pat and I make the tried and true ones over and over. Happy cooking & baking!

Make sure to check out my Instagram page @chantzyw for more recipes.

Here it goes:

Pesach Crackers

- 6 extra large eggs

- 3 ½ cups potato starch

- 4 tbl Sugar

- 1 tsp salt

- 1 cup avocado oil

1) Preheat oven to 350°

2) Line 3 Cookie sheets with parchment paper.

3)In a medium sized bowl, whisk eggs with fork.

4) Add the rest of the ingredients.

5) Mix well.

6) Divide mixture into 3 and spread the mixture onto the cookie sheets as thinly as possible.

7) Add toppings as preferred.

8) Bake for 10 minutes on 350°

9) Remove from oven, slice into squares.

10) Bake for another 30 minutes.

Pesach Blondies

- 8 whole eggs

- 2 cups sugar

- 2 cups brown sugar

- 2 cups oil

- 6 tsp. vanilla sugar

- 2 cups potato starch

- 4 tsp. baking powder

- 2 6 oz. bags of ground nuts

- 2 cups mini chocolate chips

1) Preheat oven to 350°

2) Mix the eggs, sugar, brown sugar, oil, and vanilla sugar in a mixer.

3) Add potato starch, baking powder, and nuts.

4) Divide between (4) 8-inch square pans. (Don’t use (2) 9x13 pans instead, it won’t cook evenly)

5) Sprinkle chocolate chips as a topping.

6) Bake for 45 minutes on 350°

Pesach Egg Crepes

- 30 whole eggs

- 1 ½ cup potato starch

- ¼ tsp salt

- 3 ¾ cup water

1) Add eggs, potato starch, and salt into a large bowl.

2) Using an immersion blender, mix well.

3) Add water, mix well.

4) For the perfect size crepe, use ¼ cup of batter.

5) After every few crepes, give the mixing bowl another whirl with the blender as the starch may settle.

*Don’t forget to spray oil or cooking spray between every crepe.

Pesach Apple Pie

This Recipe makes (2) 9-inch pie rounds. - 1 ½ cup sugar - 1 tsp vanilla sugar - 1 cup oil - ¾ cup ground almonds - 1 egg

- 3 cups potato starch - 7-8 Macintosh apples, sliced or chopped - ½ tsp cinnamon - 1 tsp lemon juice

1) Preheat oven to 350°

2) Mix 1 cup sugar, vanilla sugar, oil, and almonds in a bowl.

3) Add 1 beaten egg and mix well.

4) Add potato starch.

5) Mix by hand.

6) In a separate bowl, mix apples with the remaining sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice.

7) Divide crumb mixture into 4 equal parts.

9) Layer apples.

8) Press 1 part of crumb mixture into the bottom of both 9-inch rounds.

10) Crumble the remaining crumbs on top of the apples.

11) Bake 1 hour on 350°

Grape Juice Sorbet

This recipe makes 40 4oz containers.

- 6 cups water

- 3 cups sugar

- 1 cup lemon juice - 6 cups dark grape juice

1) Heat the water and sugar over a high flame until dissolved.

2) Add lemon juice and grape juice.

3) Bring pot to a boil and turn off flame.

4) When the liquid is completely cool, pour into 2 9x13 pans.

5) Freeze for 8 hours or overnight.

6) Remove from freezer.

7) Scoop the ices into a food processor fitted with an S blade.

8) In small batches, blend until creamy and has a lighter color. (For an even creamier consistency, repeat this step of freezing and blending a second time)

9) Divide into 4 oz containers or 1 big tub, as preferred.

Best Coffee Ice Cream

- 12 eggs, separated

- 1 ½ cup sugar

- 2 tbl vanilla sugar

- 5 tsp coffee diluted in a bit of hot water

- 1 cup oil

1) Beat egg whites until foamy, gradually adding sugar until stiff.

2) Mix in vanilla sugar and dissolved coffee.

3) Transfer mixture to a big mixing bowl.

4) In a separate bowl, beat the yolks with the oil.

5) Fold into the egg white mixture.

6) Pour into a 9x13 pan and freeze.

For a vanilla ice cream version, omit the coffee and double the vanilla sugar.

Possible topping options are crushed Viennese crunch, mini chocolate chips, and sugared nuts.

What’s your favorite dessert?

Happy Baking!

PESACH FIT FOR

MEATS ROYALTY

Like every Yom Tov, Pesach is a holiday where traditions vary from family to family. In my family, we are pretty stringent on Pesach. We only use a minimal amount of ingredients. I always leafed through magazines to find new recipes, but I found that I was often not able to make any of them because we did not eat most of the ingredients used in the recipes. These recipes are catered for everyone, for those of you who want tasty and unique recipes, and for those who usually cannot recreate Pesach recipes from magazines but want something different to add to your repertoire.

by Charny Kohn

SWEET STUFFED CAPONS POTATO CHICKEN

This recipe is for when you want something lighter than meat but still want a main dish fit for royalty. The colors and flavors will impress all!

Sweet potato stuffing:

- 4 sweet potatoes

- 2 tablespoons potato starch

- 1 tablespoon honey

- 1 teaspoon salt

- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper

Chicken:

- 8 boneless chicken thighs, skin on

- 1 tablespoon salt

- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Citrus glaze:

- 4 tablespoons honey

- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice

- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice

- 1/2 teaspoon salt

Peel and dice the sweet potatoes. Add them to a pot and fill it with water. Bring to a boil and simmer for twenty minutes. Drain the water and mash the sweet potatoes with the potato starch, honey, salt, and pepper. Allow the mixture to cool before handling.

Add about two tablespoons of the sweet potato mixture to the center of each capon. Roll and place in a 9x13 baking dish. Rub a bit of oil over the skin and season with salt and pepper. Cover tightly and bake at 350° for an hour and forty minutes.

Combine all the ingredients for the glaze. Brush the chicken with the glaze and raise the oven temperature to 400°. Bake uncovered for an additional twenty minutes.

ONION CHUCK EYE CRUSTED ROAST

If you have a question on Pesach, you can almost always be sure that the answer will be onions. So when I asked myself how I could give the classic roast a makeover, my first thought was... onions! We create a flavorful crust that will elevate the decadent roast by pureeing the onions and adding extra flavor from the shallots!

- 4 lb. chuck eye roast

- 1 small onion

- 2 shallots

- 2 tablespoons salt

- 1 tablespoon sugar

- 1 teaspoon black pepper

Combine all the ingredients besides the meat in a bowl and puree using a hand blender or food processor. Place the beef in a deep pan and cover with the onion puree. Place the dish on the middle rack in your oven. Broil for eight minutes per side.* Add a 1/4 cup of water, cover well and bake at 350° for an hour and forty-five minutes.

*If your oven does not have a broil option. Sear the meat with a bit of oil for five minutes per side. After it is seared, place it in a deep baking pan and cover it with the onion puree. Proceed as instructed above.

Boro Park Center invites our residents to join us for a

Please refer to resident’s room calendar for date, time and location.

For Boro Park Center residents and accompanying family members only.