(Hakhel)

Below is a listing of special Halachos for left-handed people, excerpted from the Sefer Yad Eliezer: A collection of various Halachos, Mitzvos and minhagim pertinent to lefthanders, by Rabbi Paysach J. Krohn, Shlita. As always, one should consult with his Rav or Posek regarding his personal circumstances:
1. When Making a Bracha. When making a bracha, the left-hander holds the food in his
left hand. The same is true when a left hander is holding any Devar Mitzvah that he is
about to utilize so that he would hold any Kos Shel Bracha (even if he does not
personally drink from it) in his left hand, the besamim at Havdalah in his left hand, etc.

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The Luach Davar B’Ito reminds all that Purim costumes (especially hats from Eastern Europe) may contain Shatnez, and accordingly should be checked in advance of Purim to make sure that the costume is usable. Renting a costume may prove difficult if one is not able  to partially open it up to inspect for shatnez. The Luach also advises against costumes that can scare others and also reminds parents to double-check the wearability of a child’s costume to avoid last minute disappointment that the costume does not fit or falls apart.

To donate, go to: kosherfb.org/donate

A freilichen Purim!

The Cleveland Gemach is seeking a partner willing to build a local furniture moving business. This partner would provide their own time, resources, and work together with the Gemach to build connections and clients as well as to work within the community as a whole. Considering all available resources, whether a pickup truck, trailer, or ideally a larger box truck. Please contact 216-321-9393.

Genealogy workshop: If you really want to know where you came from, here’s an opportunity to find out.

The Jewish Genealogy Society of Cleveland is holding a workshop for beginners from 7-9 p.m. March 28 in the Miller Board Room at Menorah Park, 27100 Cedar Road.

Participants will learn how to search birth, marriage and census records, and how free databases may be accessed with a library card and personal computer.

Genealogy experts Ken Bravo and Cynthia Spikell will serve as instructors for the interactive program.

The workshop is free for society members, and $18 for non-members. Participants should bring a Wi-Fi-enabled laptop and Cuyahoga County Library card. Space is limited.

To register, send an email to 2ndVP@ClevelandJGS.org, or download registration materials from clevelandjgs.org.