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We need some ideas on controlling and lowering Rhinebeck’s taxes.

I would like to get some comments on how we can lower taxes in Rhinebeck. Town, Village and school. Any thoughts would be appreciated and we can forward to the town, village and school officials.

 

Conditions to comment.

Click here for conditions of commenting.

 

Kudos to Rhinebeck sophomore

Michelle Dewkett for speaking out on global warming. I watched her interview on FOX and Friends this morning. Thumbs down to Rhinebeck High School for not providing the truth or at the very least a balanced look at this issue. Parents, students, please comment here. I agree 100% with Michelle’s view that climate has been changing since the beginning of our earth and despite what the alarmists say will continue until the end. I would like to have Michelle write an article to place here and on my other sites with her views on global warming. I would appreciate any Rhinebeck students doing so.

rhinebeck-blog@boudica.us

boudica_bpi@boudica.us

e-mail me at one of the above with a brief description of interest.

Updated with video clip 12/29/09 @ 7:52 PM

 

Going Kab-Balistic

Tomorrow evening! Monday, February 8, 7:00 PM

GOING KAB-BALISTIC

A glimpse into class 2:

1) One of the basic doctrines of the Tanya is that every Jew possesses two souls.

2) These two souls are the source for the various drives and impulses within man.

3) The two souls are responsible for all the conflicts within man.

4) This duality/dichotomy within man is not random, but purposeful and the Divine plan.

5) Man is capable of mastering and transcending his nature

Join us for a journey into the depths of Jewish Mysticism and delve into the major themes and trends of Kabbalistic teachings as discussed in the Tanya, the fundamental guide of Chabad Chassidic philosophy. Come join us for this six week course and discover more about yourself and your inner makeup.

Dates: Six Mondays, beginning February 1, 8, 22, March 1, 8 & 15 at 7:00 PM
Location: Chabad Lubavitch Center, 63 Vassar Rd., Poughkeepsie, N.Y.
Instructor: Hindy Borenstein
No previous background or knowledge necessary. Pre-registration requested by calling Chabad at 463-5801 or e-mail chabadmidhudsonvly@prodigy.net
Registration is requested. A modest donation of $25 is requested for all 6 classes. $5 per class requested. You can attend all classes or just come for one.

To register please call Hindy at 463-5801 or e-mail chabadmidhudsonvly@prodigy.net

Chabad Lubavitch of Mid-Hudson Valley | 63 Vassar Rd | Poughkeepsie | NY | 12603

 

News from Chabad Lubavitch of Hudson Valley

A word from the Rabbi

B”H Shabbat morning services: 10:00 AM followed by a delecious kiddush & the famous Rabbi’s cholent! Interested to sponsor a Kiddush? Please contact the Rabbi. GOING KAB-BALISTIC–Kabbalah for Jews of all ages A glimpse into class 2: This coming Monday February 8 1) One of the basic doctrines of the Tanya is that every Jew possesses two souls. 2) These two souls are the source for the various drives and impulses within man. 3) The two souls are responsible for all the conflicts within man. 4) This duality/dichotomy within man is not random, but purposeful and the Divine plan. 5) Man is capable of mastering and transcending his nature Join us for a journey into the depths of Jewish Mysticism Delve into the major themes and trends of Kabbalistic teachings and thought as discussed in the Tanya, the fundamental guide of Chassidic philosophy. Six Mondays, beginning February 1, 8, 22, March 1, 8 & 15 at 7:00 PM Chabad Lubavitch Center, 63 Vassar Rd., Poughkeepsie, N.Y. Instructor: Hindy Borenstein No previous background or knowledge necessary .Pre-registration requested by calling Chabad at 463-5801 or e-mail chabadmidhudsonvly@prodigy.net A requested donation of $25 is asked for the entire course. $5 per class. You can come for all or just attend one class. All are welcome. The breakdown of topics to be discussed each week to follow in coming week.. Ongoing Events: Sunday Morning Hebrew School classes from 10:00 to 12:15. In addition to our regular classes, a new class has begun for 3 and 4 year olds with Mrs. Rochel Baron, an incredible pre-school teacher. If you are interested in our 3-4 year old wonderful Sunday Jewish Enrichment Program for your  pre-schooler, or for your older child, please call Hindy @ 463-5801. Our phenomenal Hebrew reading program called Aleph Champ, which follows the karate system, is a wonderful and motivational way for children to learn Hebrew. And they actually really love doing it! In addition to Hebrew reading, the children learn about Jewsih teachings and values in a hands-on way that makes Judaism come alive and be relevant to their everyday lives. Interested in learning to read Hebrew? It will make a real difference in your life! Small groups or one on one. Call Hindy at 463-5801 SUNDAY, JANUARY 31 BLT-BAGELS, LOX AND TORAH (and TEFILLIN. too!) A round table discussion of relevant Jewish and current topics. Wednesday Torah class with Hindy Borenstein 11:00 AM  at the Borenstein home, 36 Pleasant Ridge Dr., Pok. Indulge your mind with thought  provoking insights from the weekly Torah portion and other contemporary issues, and your body, with a light and  healthy lunch. Call Hindy to let her know that you are coming or just drop in–all are welcome! RESERVE THE DATE: to view it larger please click on the picture Chabad’s Grand Purim Event, one of the most popular Jewish events of the year, will take place on Purim Day, Sunday, February 28 at 4:30 PM at the Mercury Grand Hotel (formerly the Best Western), in the Grand Ballroom. This year’s Purim Bash, called PURIM IN AFRICA, promises to be one wild evening! All the props, activities, food and music will be African (and Jewish) themed! A magnificient Purim African Drum Circle led by musician, music therapist and drummer, Moshe (Marlon) Sobol with everyone’s participation will be one of the evenings highlights (and, of course, the Megillah reading!). Sponsors and volunteers for this event and our many other Purim activities are desperately needed! Call the Rabbi if you can be a sponsor or HIndy if you are able to volunteer to help! RESERVE THE DATE! Noted cookbook author and cooking expert Susie Fishbein will be coming to the area for a cooking show demo on April 20. To help out or be a ponsor please call Hindy @ 463-5801. More details to follow. Just reserve the date! RESERVE THE DATE! Chabad of Mid Hudson Valley, as it begins its 25th year, will be celebrating a quarter of a century of service to the Jewish community in the Mid Hudson Valley, with an elegant fundraiser dinner, featuring a music ensemble, and a top rate entertainer. In addition, Chabad will be honoring a number of individuals that have been very influential in helping the tremendous growth of Chabad and Jewish life throughout the Mid Hudson Valley. The event, celebrating a quarter of a century of service, is scheduled for Sunday, May 23, 2010 at 3:00 PM, at the Holiday Inn, on Rt. 9, in Fishkill, N.Y. Details to follow. Dear Friends, We read in the Torah portion Yisro that “In the third month after the Exodus of the children of Israel from the land of Egypt, on that day, they came to the wilderness of Sinai… and Israel encamped there before the mountain.” The Mechilta comments: “Everywhere else it is written ‘They traveled… they encamped’ [in the plural]. That is to say ‘they traveled’ with dissenting opinions and ‘they encamped’ with dissenting opinions. Here, however, [it is written] ‘and Israel encamped,’ [in the singular, for] all were equally of one heart.” The Mechilta thus informs us that although it is entirely natural for the members of a multitude to have dissenting opinions, when the Jews encamped in preparation to receive the Torah, all were “of one heart.” This was a result of the Torah’s ability to bring complete peace and unity, as the Rambam states: “The entire Torah was given in order to bring peace into the world.” Therefore the Jews’ encampment before Mt. Sinai brought complete unity; they stopped bickering. What property does Torah possess that enables it to bring about such peace and unity that all are “of one heart”? In fact, the argument could be made that Torah fosters dissonance, for it is replete with dissenting and disparate opinions with regard to various points of Jewish law, etc. And while it is true that once a definitive judgment is rendered all parties must act strictly in accordance with the halacha , it would seem that private intellectual disagreement must remain. How then can Torah be said to cause all Jews to be “of one heart ,” which implies that it unites Jews not only in action but also in understanding and feeling? The Torah stresses that the Jewish people’s encampment “with one heart” took place during “the third month after the Exodus.” Evidently the people’s unity resulted not only from their location “opposite the mount,” but also from the fact that this took place during the third month. What is so special about three, and how does it foster unity; if anything, unity seems more directly related to the number one. The difference between the numbers one, two and three are as follows: “One” stresses that from the very outset there exists but one thing; “two” is indicative of divisiveness – the antitheses of unity. “Three,” however, sees a uniting of disparate entities – making “one” out of “two.” This aspect of “three” is similar to the statement of our Sages that “When two Biblical passages contradict each other, the meaning can be determined by a third Biblical text, which reconciles them.” We see here the remarkable quality of the “third.” Without the third verse the two verses indeed contradict each other. Then the third reconciles the seemingly irreconcilable. Moreover, it does so not by “taking sides,” i.e., agreeing with one verse and disagreeing with the other, but by showing that the first two verses are actually in consonance. Since Torah is inextricably bound up with the concept of “three,” as our Sages state: “Blessed is G-d who gave the three-part Torah to the three-part Nation… in the third month,” it is understandable that Torah as a whole has characteristics similar to those of the number three. This results in the fact that even when Torah law is seemingly arrived at not through a reconciling view, but by agreeing with one opinion and disagreeing with another, those initially opposed agree not only with the adjudication but also with the logic that resulted in the verdict – all are peacefully united “with one heart.” Based on the teachings of the Lubavitcher Rebbe Shabbat Shalom, Rabbi Yacov and Hindy Borenstein and family Chabad Lubavitch of Mid Hudson Valley www.chabadmidhudsonvalley.com 845-463-5801

The New Extension to the Chabad Center

To view it in full scale, click on image. If you wish to dedicate or contribute for the New Bais Chabad Center please call the Rabbi for an appointment. The Rebbe To learn more about the Rebbe, click on the picture above. Candle Lighting Times       for Poughkeepsie, NY Friday, February 5 Light Candles at 4:58 PM Shabbat ends at 6:00 PM Shabbat Services 10:00 AM followed by a delecious kiddush Kosher BLT Sunday February 7 9:00 AM New Kabbalah Class February 8 7:30 PM at the Chabad Center Women’s Torah class: Wednesday February 10        11:00 AM at the Rabbi’s home Quick Links chabadmidhudsonvalley.com Donate Now Mazal Tov If you would like to include a Mazal Tov please call (845) 463-5801 or e-mail: chabadmidhudsonvly@prodigy.net You have a question? Ask the Rabbi, email Rabbi Borenstein or call (845) 463-5801

 

PJ Popcorn and Shabbat Shalom! Rhinebeck Jewish Center

Greetings!
We are happy to report that our Tu Bishvat event “Fruit For Thought ” was a wonderful event!
Please join us for our monthly PJ Popcorn program at the Starr Library in Rhinebeck on Wednesday Feb.3rd at 6 PM.
Wishing  you a Shabbat Shalom!
Sincerely,
Rabbi Hanoch and Tzivie Hecht

Short thought

And it came to pass on the third day (19:16)

The Torah is associated with the number “3″ because the ultimate function of Torah is “to make peace in the world” and “3″ represents the concept of peace.
Peace is unity in diversity. The number “1″ implies exclusivity and singularity; the number “2″ connotes diversity and plurality; the number “3″ represents a state in which the diversity of “2″ is superceded by a third, encompassing truth, within whose context differences no longer divide but rather unite diverse components into a harmonious whole.
This is the function to Torah: to introduce a unity of purpose to the diverse objects, forces and peoples of creation, uniting them all in the harmonious endeavor of serving the divine objective in creation.
(The Chassidic Masters)

Humor

A couple of dog owners are arguing about whose pet is smarter.
“My dog is so smart, that every morning he waits for the paperboy to come around. He tips the kid and then brings the newspaper to me, along with my morning coffee.” says the first owner.
“I know,” says the second owner.
“How do you know?”
“My dog told me.”

Candle Lighting Times:

Friday Feb. 5th:       Light candles at 4:57 PM
Shabbat Feb. 6th:   Shabbat ends at 5:59 PM
The Rhinebeck Jewish Center is a project of Chabad Dutchess.

NoKiddush Club Due to the Chabad womans conference.

PJ Popcorn

Our monthly Pajama-style party for kids and their parents to enjoy some good story time, learning and yummy popcorn. The 1st Wednesday of every month, next occurrence on Feb. 3rd, from 6PM-7PM, at the Starr Library in Rhinebeck, NY.

Soup Salad and Soul

Our monthly women’s brunch on the 3rd Sunday of every month.

Next occurrence on Feb. 21st 2010.

Purim

Stay tuned for details…

Passover
Make reservations now to join us for the Seder

Chabad

offers a wide range of programs for the entire Jewish community. No membership is necessary, and we welcome all — regardless of affiliation or background.

Chabad provides a non-judgmental, welcoming environment for Jewish families and individuals to explore our rich heritage.

 

News from Chabad Lubavitch of Hudson Valley

A word from the Rabbi

B”H Friday Evening – A Tu B’shvat celebration “Fruit for thought” Join us for an inspiring Tu B’Shvat evening, with Shabbat Services and delicious great Shabbat buffet, featuring various dishes containing the special fruits of the land of Israel. Rabbi Shmuel Serebryanski will address the topic: Fruit for thought: “Nurturing our inner garden” Special activity for children: - making fruit kabobs, story and game activity. Friday, January 30, Services will begin at 5:30 PM followed by kiddush and lively evening. Location: home of Rabbi Yacov and Hindy Borenstein, 36 Pleasant Ridge Dr, P’ok. Everyone is welcome, but kindly RSVP by calling the Rabbi or Hindy 463-5801 or e-mail chabadmidhudsonvly@prodigy.net Shabbat morning services: 10:00 AM followed by a delecious kiddush & the famous Rabbi’s cholent! Interested to sponsor a Kiddush? Please contact the Rabbi. COMING NEW THIS WEEK! GOING KAB-BALISTIC–Kabbalah for Jews of all ages Join us for a journey into the depths of Jewish Mysticism Delve into the major themes and trends of Kabbalistic teachings and thought as discussed in the Tanya, the fundamental guide of Chassidic philosophy. Some topics to be discussed: History of Kabbalah, differentiating between authentic and the non-authentic Kabbalah and why this sudden renewed interest in Mysticism? What is a soul, its makeup and how it helps us understand and deal with our inner conflicts, the Ten sefirot, understanding good and evil. Six Mondays, beginning February 1, 8, 22, March 1, 8 &15 at 7:00 PM Chabad Lubavitch Center, 63 Vassar Rd., Poughkeepsie, N.Y. Instructor: Hindy Borenstein No previous background or knowledge necessary .Pre-registration requested by calling Chabad at 463-5801 or e-mail chabadmidhudsonvly@prodigy.net A requested donation of $25 is asked for the entire course. $5 per class. You can come for all or just attend one class. All are welcome. The breakdown of topics to be discussed each week to follow in coming week.. Ongoing Events: Sunday Morning Hebrew School classes from 10:00 to 12:15. In addition to our regular classes, a new class has begun for 3 and 4 year olds with Mrs. Rochel Baron, an incredible pre-school teacher. If you are interested in our 3-4 year old wonderful Sunday Jewish Enrichment Program for your  pre-schooler, or for your older child, please call Hindy @ 463-5801. Our phenomenal Hebrew reading program called Aleph Champ, which follows the karate system, is a wonderful and motivational way for children to learn Hebrew. And they actually really love doing it! In addition to Hebrew reading, the children learn about Jewsih teachings and values in a hands-on way that makes Judaism come alive and be relevant to their everyday lives. Interested in learning to read Hebrew? It will make a real difference in your life! Small groups or one on one. Call Hindy at 463-5801 SUNDAY, JANUARY 31 BLT-BAGELS, LOX AND TORAH (and TEFILLIN. too!) A round table discussion of relevant Jewish and current topics. Wednesday Torah class with Hindy Borenstein 11:00 AM  at the Borenstein home, 36 Pleasant Ridge Dr., Pok. Indulge your mind with thought  provoking insights from the weekly Torah portion and other contemporary issues, and your body, with a light and  healthy lunch. Call Hindy to let her know that you are coming or just drop in–all are welcome! RESERVE THE DATE: to view it larger please click on the picture Chabad’s Grand Purim Event, one of the most popular Jewish events of the year, will take place on Purim Day, Sunday, February 28 at 4:30 PM at the Mercury Grand Hotel (formerly the Best Western), in the Grand Ballroom. This year’s Purim Bash, called PURIM IN AFRICA, promises to be one wild evening! All the props, activities, food and music will be African (and Jewish) themed! A magnificient Purim African Drum Circle led by musician, music therapist and drummer, Moshe (Marlon) Sobol with everyone’s participation will be one of the evenings highlights (and, of course, the Megillah reading!). Sponsors and volunteers for this event and our many other Purim activities are desperately needed! Call the Rabbi if you can be a sponsor or HIndy if you are able to volunteer to help! RESERVE THE DATE! Noted cookbook author and cooking expert Susie Fishbein will be coming to the area for a cooking show demo on April 20. To help out or be a ponsor please call Hindy @ 463-5801. More details to follow. Just reserve the date! Dear Friends, This coming Shabbat is the 15th of Shvat, known as Tu B’Shvat, the Jewish New Year for the Trees. The Talmud tells us that there are four “Rosh Hashanahs”. The most famous one, of course, is Rosh Hashanah, which we celebrate at the beginning of the Jewish Year. It is a day of judgement for all mankind. The ecological kingdom, as well, has its day of judgement, which is on Tu B’Shvat, when the fate of all growing things is determined. While Tu B’Shvat is a time to offer thanksgiving to G-d for the bounty we receive from the earth, and we celebrate it by eating “new fruits’ of the season, specifically fruits from the seven fruits for which the Land of Israel is blessed (olives, dates, figs, pomegrantes, etc..) As in all areas of Judaism, every holiday is also a time of self-reflection and an impetus for spiritual growth. It isn’t just about the trees, it’s really about us. The Torah tells us “For man is a tree of the field”. The unique quality of a tree is that it must keep growing. When it stops growing, it begins to wither and eventually die. The same is true of man. Although physically we don’t always “keep growing” (hopefully), but spiritually man is meant to constantly grow. While in material things man should be happy with his lot, in spiritual matters the opposite is true. We, like the tree, must continue striving and growing, always seeking to be better. This Shabbat is also called “Shabbat Shirah” (the Shabbat of Song), as this week’s Torah portion, B’Shalach, contains the song that the Jewish People sang as they crossed the Red Sea. This song, “Az Yashir”, is said every day in our Morning Prayers, and is traditionally recited by the entire congregation together on this Shabbat. On this Shabbat it is also customary to leave out food for the birds. We do this in appreciation for them eating up the Manna that two wicked Jews, Datan and Aviram, purposely left out on Shabbat morning so as to make a mockery of  Moshe’s statement that the Manna would not fall on Shabbat (making him a liar). If we need to show appreciation to the birds for their kindness, who are not kind by choice, how much more so must we appreciate the kindness that our fellow man, who has  free choice and makes a conscious decision to do  kindness, does for us. Indeed, appreciation is a fundamental of Jewish life and part of being a mentsch. So, as we resolve this Tu B’Shvat to not be satisfied with ourselves, but to keep on growing spiritually, let us also resolve to show more appreciation for the many kindnesses others do for us, not only strangers, but even close family members-our parents, spouses, siblings. To teach our children appreciation, we must be living examples to them. Shabbat Shalom, Rabbi Yacov and Hindy Borenstein and family www.chabadmidhudsonvalley.com 845-463-5801

The New Extension to the Chabad Center

To view it in full scale, click on image. If you wish to dedicate or contribute for the New Bais Chabad Center please call the Rabbi for an appointment. The Rebbe To learn more about the Rebbe, click on the picture above. Candle Lighting Times       for Poughkeepsie, NY Friday, January 29 Light Candles at 4:49 PM Shabbat ends at 5:52 PM Shabbat Services 10:00 AM followed by a delecious kiddush Kosher BLT Sunday January 31 9:00 AM Women’s Torah class: Wednesday January February 3 11:00 AM at the Rabbi’s home New Kabbalah Class February 1 7:30 PM at the Chabad Center Quick Links chabadmidhudsonvalley.com Donate Now Mazal Tov If you would like to include a Mazal Tov please call (845) 463-5801 or e-mail: chabadmidhudsonvly@prodigy.net You have a question? Ask the Rabbi, email Rabbi Borenstein or call (845) 463-5801

 

GOING KAB-BALISTIC

Beginning this Monday, February1, 2010!

Join us for a journey into the depths of Jewish Mysticism and delve into the major themes and trends of Kabbalistic teachings as discussed in the Tanya, the fundamental guide of Chabad Chassidic philosophy. Come join us for this six week course and discover more about yourself and your inner makeup.
DATES: Six Mondays, beginning February 1, 8, 22, March 1, 8 & 15 at 7:00 PM
Location: Chabad Lubavitch Center, 63 Vassar Rd., Poughkeepsie, N.Y.
Instructor: Hindy Borenstein
No previous background or knowledge necessary. Pre-registration requested by calling Chabad at 463-5801 or e-mail chabadmidhudsonvly@prodigy.net
The first class will focus on an introduction to Kabbalah, differentiating between authentic Kabbalah and the new-age “fads”, and why this sudden renewed interest in Kabbalah and Mysticism.
The second and third class will focus on What is a soul? The soul’s makeup, how it shapes our personality and helps us understand and deal with our inner conflicts and struggles
Some of the topics to be discussed in future classes include the Ten Sefirot, understanding good and evil, etc.
Registration is requested. A modest donation of $25 is requested for all 6 classes. $5 per class requested. You can attend all classes or just come for one.
To register please call Hindy at 463-5801 or e-mail chabadmidhudsonvly@prodigy.net

 

Coming up this Saturday night! Motivating Speaker, Light Dinner

Join us this Saturday Night!

Motivating Speaker and light Dinner.

 

News from Chabad Lubavitch of Hudson Valley

LubaLubavitch of Mid-Hudson Valley Newslettervitch of Mid-Hudson Valley Newsletter

Frday, Janry 22, 2010 Shevat 7, 5770

A word from the Rabbi

B”H Thank you for your help! The repairs to the boilers are nearly complete, thanks to your contributions that enabled us to do this. Any further contribution to this cause or for those who wish to help sponsor oil deliveries would be greatly appreciated! Upcoming Events: Sunday Morning Hebrew School classes from 10:00 to 12:15. In addition to our regular classes, a new class has begun for 3 and 4 year olds with Mrs. Rochel Baron, an incredible pre-school teacher. If you are interested in our 3-4 year old wonderful Sunday Jewish Enrichment Program for your  pre-schooler, or for your older child, please call Hindy @ 463-5801. Our phenomenal Hebrew reading program called Aleph Champ, which follows the karate system, is a wonderful and motivational way for children to learn Hebrew. And they actually really love doing it! In addition to Hebrew reading, the children learn about Jewsih teachings and values in a hands-on way that makes Judaism come alive and be relevant to their everyday lives. SUNDAY, JANUARY 24th BLT-BAGELS, LOX AND TORAH (and TEFILLIN. too!) A round table discussion of relevant Jewish and current topics. There will be a special farbrengen in honor of the 10th of Shevat. All are welcome. TU B’SHVAT CELEBRATION FRUIT FOR THOUGHT-NURTURING YOUR INNER GARDEN Join us for an inspiring Tu B’Shvat evening, with lively short Shabbat Services and delicious great Shabbat buffet, featuring various dishes containing the special fruits of the land of Israel. Guest Speaker will address the topic: Fruit for thought: “Nurturing our inner garden” Special activity for children: (during talk)– making fruit kabobs, story and game activity. Friday, January 30, Services will begin at 5:30 PM followed by kiddush. and lively evening. Location: home of Rabbi Yacov and Hindy Borenstein, 36 Pleasant Ridge Dr, P’ok. Everyone is welcome, but kindly RSVP by calling the Rabbi or Hindy 463-5801 or e-mail chabadmidhudsonvly@prodigy.net Interested in learning to read Hebrew ? It will make a real difference in your life! Small groups or one on one. Call Hindy at 463-5801 RESERVE THE FOLLOWING DATES FOR- A CLASS YOU SHOULD NOT MISS! GOING KAB-BALISTIC–Kabbalah for Jews of all ages Originally intended as a women’s Kabbalah course, the decision was made to have this popular course open to men and women. Join us for a journey into the depths of Jewish Mysticism Delve into the major themes and trends of Kabbalistic teachings and thought as discussed in the Tanya, the fundamental guide of Chassidic philosophy. Some topics to be discussed: History of Kabbalah, differentiating between authentic and the non-authentic Kabbalah and why this sudden renewed interest in Mysticism? What is a soul, its makeup and how it helps us understand and deal with our inner conflicts, the Ten sefirot, understanding good and evil. Six Mondays, beginning February 1, 8, 22, March 1, 8 &15 at 7:00 PM Chabad Lubavitch Center, 63 Vassar Rd., Poughkeepsie, N.Y. Instructor: Hindy Borenstein No previous background or knowledge necessary .Pre-registration requested by calling Chabad at 463-5801 or e-mail chabadmidhudsonvly@prodigy.net A requested donation of $25 is asked for the entire course. $5 per class. You can come for all or just attend one class. All are welcome. The breakdown of topics to be discussed each week to follow in coming week.. RESERVE THE DATE: Chabad’s Grand Purim Event, one of the most popular Jewish events of the year, will take place on Purim Day, Sunday, February 28 at 4:30 PM at the Mercury Grand Hotel (formerly the Best Western), in the Grand Ballroom. This year’s Purim Bash, called PURIM IN AFRICA, promises to be one wild evening! All the props, activities, food and music will be African (and Jewish) themed! A magnificient Purim African Drum Circle led by musician, music therapist and drummer, Moshe (Marlon) Sobol with everyone’s participation will be one of the evenings highlights (and, of course, the Megillah reading!) More details to follow. Due to the difficult economic times, admission costs are being kept low, although the cost to us is very high. Sponsors and volunteers for this event and our many other Purim activities are desperately needed! Call the Rabbi if you can be a sponsor or HIndy if you are able to volunteer to help! Wednesday Torah class with Hindy Borenstein… at 11:00 AM  at the Borenstein home, 36 Pleasant Ridge Dr., Pok. Indulge your mind with thought  provoking insights from the weekly Torah portion and other contemporary issues, and your body, with a light and  healthy lunch. Call Hindy to let her know that you are coming or just drop in–all are welcome! This Wednesday, January 27, there will be no classes. RESERVE THE DATE! Noted cookbook author and cooking expert Susie Fishbein will be coming to the area for a cooking show demo on April 20. To help out or be a ponsor please call Hindy @ 463-5801. More details to follow. Just reserve the date! Dear Friends, Our blessings still go out to the people of Haiti. The world has experienced a devastating blow recently with the earthquake in Haiti and it’s powerful aftershock. Tens of thousands of lives lost or disrupted. We mourn the loss of the victims, and pray for the healing and help of those in need of medical help or rescue. This coming Monday, January 25th, the 10th of Shvat, we will be observing 60 years since the passing of the Previous Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Yosef Yitzchok Schneersohn. The Previous Rebbe singlehandedly battled the mighty Communist Soviet Empire to keep Judaism alive in Russia. He was subsequently arrested and sentenced to death. His sentence was commuted and he arrived in the Unites States in 1940,  in his words, to show that “America is not different”, and that Jewish life could thrive in America. He began the massive outreach work that was built upon and broadened to unbelievable heights by his son-in-law and successor, the seventh Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneersohn. This day also is the day on which the Rebbe ascended to the leadership of Chabad, in 1951, one year after his father-in-laws passing. He changed the entire scope and direction of Jewish life in every corner of the globe. This coming Monday is thus a day to take upon oneself good resolutions in Torah study and Mitzvah observance. Many thousands will be visiting the resting place of both Rebbes. Anyone wishing to give in their Hebrew name and mother’s name for a blessing to be mentioned at the resting place of the Rebbe, can call the Rabbi @ 463-5801 or e-mail to chabadmidhudsonvly@prodigy.net asap. A Few Words on This Week’s Parhsa… Bo means “come,” as in the verse, Come to Pharaoh.” But why is the Parsha in which the Jews crush Egypt and leave it known as, “Come to Pharaoh,” a statement which expresses the might of Pharaoh and Egypt? This teaches us a lesson: Some people think that to solve the problems in their religious and spiritual life, they just need to do more good, and more good and more good… The truth is however, that in addition to doing more good, a person also has to eradicate the bad. And not just bad in general, but bad must be crushed at its root, so that it does not “grow back.” Therefore, G-d told Moshe to “Come to Pharaoh” in his palace, where he resides in all his glory. Moshe was told to seek out the evil of Egypt at its root, and then to crush it and humiliate it to the extreme. And only then would the Exodus occur. In our daily life, this means that a person should try to identify the primary “desire” which burns in his heart – the root of his personal evil – and launch an attack on that desire with full force. When he succeeds in this mission, he will then find that his other personal struggles follow effortlessly in its wake. Shabbat Shalom, Rabbi Yacov and Hindy Borenstein and family www.chabadmidhudsonvalley.com 845-463-5801

Please click on picture to enlarge

The New Extension to the Chabad Center

To view it in full scale, click on image. If you wish to dedicate or contribute for the New Bais Chabad Center please call the Rabbi for an appointment. The Rebbe To learn more about the Rebbe, click on the picture above. Candle Lighting Times for Poughkeepsie, NY Friday, January 22 Light Candles at 4:41 PM Shabbat ends at 5:44 PM Shabbat Services 10:00 AM followed by a delecious kiddush Kosher BLT Sunday January 24 9:00 AM Women’s Torah class: Wednesday January 27 No Classes This Week Quick Links chabadmidhudsonvalley.com Donate Now Mazal Tov If you would like to include a Mazal Tov please call (845) 463-5801 or e-mail: chabadmidhudsonvly@prodigy.net You have a question? Ask the Rabbi, email Rabbi Borenstein or call (845) 463-5801

 

Pizza Night and Shabbat Shalom! Rhinebeck Jewish Center

Greetings!
Our Tu Bishvat preperations are going great and we sure hope to see you there!
Please join us as we cross the river for a yummy pizza event this saturday night at 7PM at A Peace of Pizza. The menu is endless and the experience priceless!
Wishing  you a Shabbat Shalom!
Sincerely,
Rabbi Hanoch and Tzivie Hecht

Short thought

And it came to pass on that very day, that G-d took the Children of Israel out of Egypt (12:51)

In the Passover Haggadah we say: “If G-d had not taken our forefathers out of Egypt, we, our children, and our children’s children, would still be enslaved to Pharaoh in Egypt…”

Our sages explain that the Children of Israel had become so entrenched in the paganism and depravity of Egypt, that the Exodus came at the very last possible moment, as they approached the very brink of total indistinguishability from the Egyptians. Had they remained slaves in Egypt a moment longer, there would have been no “Children of Israel” to redeem.

(Rebbe’s Haggadah)
From this Torah portion we learn that we as Jews must always remain true to our roots and distinguish ourselves from the rest of the world instead of trying to blend in with it, because our individuality is one of our greatest virtues.

Humor

A man goes to a psychiatrist and says, “Doc, my brother’s crazy, he thinks he’s a chicken.”

The doctor says, “Why don’t you turn him in?”

The guy says, “We would. But we need the eggs.”

Candle Lighting Times:

Friday Jan 22nd:       Light candles at 4:39 PM
Shabbat Jan 23rd:   Shabbat ends at 5:43 PM
The Rhinebeck Jewish Center is a project of Chabad Dutchess.

Events Calendar

Pizza Night!
Our neighboring community is hosting the tastiest kosher pizza experience! Saturday Jan.23rd from 7pm-9:30pm @ A Peace of Pizza restaurant; 254 Lucas Ave.,Kingston NY
Serving hot fresh pizza and much much more!

“Fruit for Thought”
Our annual Tu Bishvat Celebration!
Saturday Jan 30th 2010, 7:30 PM at the Delamater Inn Conference Center.
Featuring the motivating and entertaining speaker Rabbi Levi.

PJ Popcorn
Our monthly Pajama-style party for kids and their parents to enjoy some good story time, learning and yummy popcorn. The 1st Wednesday of every month, next occurence on Feb. 3rd, from 6PM-7PM, at the Starr Library in Rhinebeck, NY.

Soup Salad and Soul
Our monthly women’s brunch on the 3rd Sunday of every month.
Next occurence on Feb. 21st 2010.

Chabad
offers a wide range of programs for the entire Jewish community. No membership is necessary, and we welcome all — regardless of affiliation or background.

Chabad provides a non-judgmental, welcoming environment for Jewish families and individuals to explore our rich heritage.

Events Calendar

Pizza Night!

Our neighboring community is hosting the tastiest kosher pizza experience! Saturday Jan.23rd from 7pm-9:30pm @ A Peace of Pizza restaurant; 254 Lucas Ave.,Kingston NY

Serving hot fresh pizza and much much more!

“Fruit for Thought”

Our annual Tu Bishvat Celebration!

Saturday Jan 30th 2010, 7:30 PM at the Delamater Inn Conference Center.

Featuring the motivating and entertaining speaker Rabbi Levi.

PJ Popcorn

Our monthly Pajama-style party for kids and their parents to enjoy some good story time, learning and yummy popcorn. The 1st Wednesday of every month, nextilies and individuals to explore our rich heritage.

 

News from Chabad Lubavitch of Hudson Valley

A word from the Rabbi

B”H We need your help! We’re always striving to bring light and warmth into this world. Last month, winter began with Chanukah, when we lit the menorah to illuminate our homes and our community.  As the cold winter goes on, we do what we can to warm up our homes, and our community. And just as it takes oil to light a menorah, it takes oil to run a heater for a shul, mikvah, or a home.  Recently, the boiler and the water tank that provides heat for the shul, mikvah, Hebrew School… and for our family home needed extensive and costly repairs in order to continue to function properly.  We ask everyone to please lend a hand to ease the financial burden during these difficult times, so that we can continue doing our work bringing warmth to the community. Please send in your contribution to: Chabad of Mid Hudson Valley 63 Vassar Rd Poughkeepsie, NY 12603 Or click the link on the right to donate online. Upcoming Events: Sunday Morning Hebrew School classes from 10:00 to 12:15. In addition to our regular classes, a new class has begun for 3 and 4 year olds with Mrs. Rochel Baron, an incredible pre-school teacher. If you are interested in our 3-4 year old wonderful Sunday Jewish Enrichment Program for your  pre-schooler, or for your older child, please call Hindy @ 463-5801. Our phenomenal Hebrew reading program called Aleph Champ, which follows the karate system, is a wonderful and motivational way for children to learn Hebrew. And they actually really love doing it! In addition to Hebrew reading, the children learn about Jewsih teachings and values in a hands-on way that makes Judaism come alive and be relevant to their everyday lives. SUNDAY, JANUARY 17th BLT-BAGELS, LOX AND TORAH (and TEFILLIN. too!) A round table discussion of relevant Jewish and current topics. TU B’SHVAT CELEBRATION FRUIT FOR THOUGHT-NURTURING YOUR INNER GARDEN Join us for an inspiring Tu B’Shvat evening, with lively short Shabbat Services and delicious great Shabbat buffet, featuring various dishes containing the special fruits of the land of Israel. Guest Speaker will address the topic: Fruit for thought: “Nurturing our inner garden” Special activity for children: (during talk)– making fruit kabobs, story and game activity. Friday, January 30, Services will begin at 5:30 PM followed by kiddush. and lively evening. Location: home of Rabbi Yacov and Hindy Borenstein, 36 Pleasant Ridge Dr, P’ok. Everyone is welcome, but kindly RSVP by calling the Rabbi or Hindy 463-5801 or e-mail chabadmidhudsonvly@prodigy.net Interested in learning to read Hebrew ? It will make a real difference in your life! Small groups or one on one. Call Hindy at 463-5801 RESERVE THE FOLLOWING DATES FOR- A CLASS YOU SHOULD NOT MISS! GOING KAB-BALISTIC–Kabbalah for Jews of all ages Originally intended as a women’s Kabbalah course, the decision was made to have this popular course open to men and women. Join us for a journey into the depths of Jewish Mysticism Delve into the major themes and trends of Kabbalistic teachings and thought as discussed in the Tanya, the fundamental guide of Chassidic philosophy. Some topics to be discussed: History of Kabbalah, differentiating between authentic and the non-authentic Kabbalah and why this sudden renewed interest in Mysticism? What is a soul, its makeup and how it helps us understand and deal with our inner conflicts, the Ten sefirot, understanding good and evil. Six Mondays, beginning February 1,8, 22, March 1, 8 &15 at 7:00 PM Chabad Lubavitch Center, 63 Vassar Rd., Poughkeepsie, N.Y. Instructor: Hindy Borenstein No previous background or knowledge necessary .Pre-registration requested by calling Chabad at 463-5801 or e-mail chabadmidhudsonvly@prodigy.net RESERVE THE DATE: PURIM IN AFRICA Chabad’s Grand Purim Event, one of the most popular Jewsih events of the year, will take place on Purim Day, Sunday, February 28 at 4:30 PM at the Grand Mercury Hotel (formerly the Best Western), in the Grand Ballroom. This year’s Purim Bash, called PURIM IN AFRICA, promises to be one wild evening! All the props, activities, food and music will be African (and Jewish) themed! A magnificient Purim African Drum Circle led by musician, music therapist and drummer, Moshe (Marlon) Sobol with everyone’s participation will be one of the evenings highlights (and, of course, the Megillah reading!) More details to follow. Due to the difficult economic times, admission costs are being kept low. although the cost to us is very high. Sponsors  and volunteers for this event and our many other Purim activities are desperately needed! Call the Rabbi if you can be  a sponsor or HIndy if you are able to volunteer to help! A requested donation of $25 is asked for the entire course. $5 per class. You can come for all or just attend one class. All are welcome. The breakdown of topics to be discussed each week to follow in coming week.. Wednesday Torah class with Hindy Borenstein this Wednesday, January 13th at 11:00 AM  at the Borenstein home, 36 Pleasant Ridge Dr., Pok. Indulge your mind with thought  provoking insights from the weekly Torah portion and other contemporary issues, and your body, with a light and  healthy lunch. Call Hindy to let her know that you are coming or just drop in–all are welcome! RESERVE THE DATE! Noted cookbook author and cooking expert Susie Fishbein will be coming to the area for a cooking show demo on April 20. To help out or be a ponsor please call Hindy @ 463-5801. More details to follow. Just reserve the date! Dear Friends, The world has experienced a devastating blow this week, with the earthquake in Haiti, tens of thousands of lives lost or disrupted. We mourn the loss of the victims, and pray for the healing and help of those in need of medical help or rescue. Moments like these bring up the unfortunately familiar question, “Why does G-d allow bad things happen to good people?” Just this past Saturday, in Jewish communities all over the world, we read the first portion of the Book of Exodus-a portion which ends with Moses’ complaint to G-d: “Why have You done bad to Your people?” The answer to this question comes at the beginning of this week’s Torah reading, in which G-d basically answers that the patriarchs, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, also had cause to question Him but never did. In other words, G-d doesn’t answer the question. Rather, He tells Moses that from another perspective – the perspective of the Patriarchs – it would not even occur to ask such a question. It’s actually quite remarkable. G-d never answered the question. One might wonder if that’s because G-d knew that Moses wouldn’t be able to understand the answer… or because He knew that he would? It is not for us to be comfortable with human suffering. It is certainly not for us to rationalize it away or, worse yet, to use false piety to audaciously explain the unexplainable. Does G-d have a plan? Does He know what He is doing? Yes. Are we able to explain what that is? If we think we are, we show that we have not only lost our hearts but also our minds. Let us come together as a community and pray to G-d to end these “Acts of G-d,” and bring the ultimate peace and tranquility to the world He created. Shabbat Shalom, Rabbi Yacov and Hindy Borenstein and family www.chabadmidhudsonvalley.com 845-463-5801

Please click on picture to enlarge

The New Extension to the Chabad Center

To view it in full scale, click on image. If you wish to dedicate or contribute for the New Bais Chabad Center please call the Rabbi for an appointment. The Rebbe To learn more about the Rebbe, click on the picture above. Candle Lighting Times for Poughkeepsie, NY Friday, January 15 Light Candles at 4:32 Shabbat ends at 5:36 PM Shabbat Services 10:00 AM followed by a delecious kiddush Kosher BLT Sunday January 17 9:00 AM Women’s Torah class: Wednesday January 20 11:00 AM at the Borenstein’s home Quick Links chabadmidhudsonvalley.com Donate Now Mazal Tov If you would like to include a Mazal Tov please call (845) 463-5801 or e-mail: chabadmidhudsonvly@prodigy.net You have a question? Ask the Rabbi, email Rabbi Borenstein or call (845) 463-5801

 

Greetings and Shabbat Shalom! The Rhinebeck Jewish Center.

Greetings

We are busily preparing for our annual Tu Bishvat Celebration so YOU can have the most amazing Tu Bishvat experience! We definately hope to see you there as well as our other great programs!
Wishing  you a Shabbat Shalom!
Sincerely,
Rabbi Hanoch and Tzivie Hecht

Short thought

And Aaron’s rod swallowed up their rods (7:12)

The Torah’s “ways are ways of pleasantness, and all its paths are peace” (Proverbs 3:17) — our task is to create light, not to battle darkness. Nevertheless, there are times when we are forced to resort to battle, when we must vanquish those who seek to vanquish us. Thus Moses, the gentle shepherd of Israel, and Aaron, the ultimate man of peace, find themselves in the role of “judge and chastiser of Pharaoh,” crushing the might of Egypt and obliterating its icons and myths.

Therein lies the lesson to be derived from the fact that Aaron’s rod swallowed the “serpents of the Egyptians” after it had reverted back to its original form, rather than as a serpent itself. For even when he wages war, the Jew is not a warrior. Even when he consumes the serpents of the enemy, he is not a serpent himself, spewing poison and hate. His instrument of vengeance is as devoid of vengeful feeling as a petrified rod, as cold to the rage of war as a lifeless stick.

(The Lubavitcher Rebbe)

Humor

An old Jewish man was dying in the hospital.  his family – wife, children, grandchildren – came to see him, but only one was allowed in the room at a time.  Grandson Ben went in first. “Hello, Grampa Moishe.  Can I do something for you?”
“Yes,” said Grampa Moishe.  Go tell Gramma Sadie I want some of her delicious chopped liver that she made yesterday.”  Ben went out and told Gramma Sadie, who said, “Go tell Grampa Moishe he can’t have any chopped liver.  It would kill him.” Ben went back in and reported what she’d said.  “You tell Gramma Sadie I want the chopped liver. I’m dying anyway and it won’t make any difference.”

Ben went and told Gramma Sadie, who said, “Go tell Grampa Moishe he can’t have any.  The chopped liver is for the Shiva.”

Candle Lighting Times:

Friday Jan 15th:       Light candles at 4:31 PM
Shabbat Jan 16th:   Shabbat ends at 5:35 PM
The Rhinebeck Jewish Center is a project of Chabad Dutchess.

Events Calendar

“Fruit for Thought”
Our annual Tu Bishvat Celebration!
Saturday Jan 30th 2010, 7:30 PM at the Delamater Inn Conference Center.
Featuring the motivating and entertaining speaker Rabbi Levi.

PJ Popcorn
Our monthly Pajama-style party for kids and their parents to enjoy some good story time, learning and yummy popcorn. The 1st Wednesday of every month, next occurence on Feb. 3rd, from 6PM-7PM, at the Starr Library in Rhinebeck, NY.

Soup Salad and Soul
Our monthly women’s brunch on the 3rd Sunday of every month.
Next occurence on Feb. 21st 2010.

Chabad
offers a wide range of programs for the entire Jewish community. No membership is necessary, and we welcome all — regardless of affiliation or background.

Chabad provides a non-judgmental, welcoming environment for Jewish families and individuals to explore our rich heritage. .