Yom Hashoah, Holocaust Memorial Day
Today, the 27th of Nisan, Jews around the world are marking Yom Ha'shoah (Officially Yom Ha'zikaron La'shoah V'la'g'vurah, which translates to The Day of Memorial for…
Don’t Forget
The Fast of the Tenth of Tevet is tomorrow. Refrain from eating or drinking from sunrise tomorrow until nightfall (when you make kiddush to sanctify Shabbat).
Maryland’s Jews
While the mid-Atlantic State of Maryland is often associated with un-kosher seafood, Maryland has a vibrant history of Jewish settlement. The state of Maryland’s “Act to Extend to the…
Hail The Accuser
In the era of social media, it is almost an everyday occurrence to be asked to sign a petition or to “like” a cause. When Emile Zola, the celebrated French novelist, published J’Accuse on…
A Special Shabbat
Welcome Chanukah, Shabbat and Rosh Chodesh Tevet this afternoon and appreciate the special opportunity we have been given to celebrate our wonderful Jewish heritage. To appreciate the…
Unsung Hero
War heroes are not always soldiers in arms. Often they are the men and women who work behind the scenes. Such was the role of Haym Salomon, an unsung hero of the American Revolution.Born…
Preacher Man
One does not often associate preachers with Judaism. There are, however, certain distinct personalities in Jewish history who are known for their ability to inspire through their…
Judah Touro
Unlike many of the great philanthropists recorded in history, Judah Touro (1775-1854) was neither the scion of old money nor a man famed for his incredible business talents. His…
IPO Music
On December 26, 1936, corresponding to the 12th of Tevet, the Palestine Orchestra, founded by Polish-Jewish violinist Bronislaw Huberman, held its initial concert in Tel Aviv. At that…
America’s First Synagogue
In 1656, Shearith Israel, the first synagogue was established in the territory that came to be known as the United States. The synagogue, also known as the Spanish and Portuguese…