Issue 9: Tisha B’Av

Tisha B’Av begins at sundown on August 6th and ends on August 7th this year (9th of Av). The holiday marks the date of the destruction of both temples and coincides with the dates of several tragedies throughout Jewish history. The date is commemorated with practices of intense mourning. Much like Yom Kippur, Tisha B’Av Read More …

Issue 7: Shabbat

“Every week, I have something to celebrate. Here’s how it went last week: after sunset on Friday, I received kind words and a hug from my dad before we sat at the dinner table with my friends and family. We ate fancy bread, drank grape juice, and washed our hands before enjoying the meal my Read More …

Issue 6: Shavuot

Shavuot is celebrated from the sixth day of Sivan (June 4-6 this year). The holiday was originally celebrated as one of the three pilgrimage festivals of the Jewish calendar. During Shavuot, men were expected to come to the temple with ten percent of their yearly barley harvest and present it as an offering. However, after Read More …

Issue 5: New Tech from Israel

I love learning about emerging technologies. Whether it’s an update to my favorite chain of computer components, smart homes/automation, developments in the automotive industry, or even a cool-looking electric toothbrush. Naturally, CES (The Consumer Electronics Show) is always something I look forward to reading about. In 2022 there were tons of new startups that came Read More …

Issue 3: Passover Foods

Hello and welcome to The Shikhanovich Spiel, a weekly publication from congregation member Alex Shikhanovich. This digital newsletter will follow a variety of topics including, Jewish news, interpretations of the current week’s Torah portion, and a breakdown of Jewish holidays.  This Passover season, I thought it would be fun to share some of the foods Read More …

Issue 2: 6 Point Playlist Volume 1

Hello and welcome to The Shikhanovich Spiel, a weekly publication from congregation member Alex Shikhanovich. This digital newsletter will follow a variety of topics including, Jewish news, interpretations of the current week’s Torah portion, and a breakdown of Jewish holidays.  This week’s issue is part of a recurring publication called the 6 point playlist. It Read More …

Issue 1: Purim

Hello and welcome to The Shikhanovich Spiel, a weekly publication from congregation member Alex Shikhanovich. You probably know my father Yuri, Temple Emmanuel of Wakefield’s First Vice President. As a current Reading Memorial High School senior, I can offer a fresh perspective. This digital newsletter will follow a variety of topics including Jewish news, interpretations Read More …